I see forums as a part of social networking; just a different form, but I see where you're getting at so here's my view:
Forums >>> Social Networking Sites
Forums you connect with people over similar interests and there's nice discussion. With social networking sites likek FB/Twitter there is hardly any nice discussion. Plus, you're constantly updated on the lives of people you don't give two ***** about. See, I'm already in contact with everyone I care/love so the social networking sites don't "help" me in any way. I get nothing out of social networking sites hence is why I'm not apart of them and stick to forums.
