bstngal: My two cents:
Dating sites are just another avenue to meet people. I don't think that people are desperate if they have a profile on a dating site or like to meet people this way. Sometimes you can learn more about someone through chatting versus someone who asks you out at a bar. I meet people in various capacities, through work, school, social activities, & guys have approached me at grocery stores as well as community events. This is just another avenue to add to. Meeting people online is great because you meet people that you otherwise wouldn't have come across in your general daily activities, so I view online dating in a positive manner.
I think, I joined this site because it is without cost. It make quick access to its members, no doubt there may be some scammers but mostly members are genuine. If we be sincre I am sure , with the help of exchanging our views with interested members,we can find our 1/2one.And also expand our friendship circle as well. I have found two sincere friends here but due to long distance among us we are not going to marry but will remain friends for ever.