On the latest Gillmor Gang we debated the evolving Data Portability landscape. Let me try to summarize the positions:

Marc Canter: At least the big social networks are doing something - and Facebook seems to give the user most privacy control.

Robert Scoble: When I give you my email address (or friend you) I have to assume that you are going to do whatever you want with it - including import it into other apps.

Michael Arrington: Facebook is behaving like old Microsoft and Marc Canter and DataPortability should demand better.

Me: Users need an additional check box when friending each other - 'You may move my data to other applications'. The big vendors are trying to keep control for as long as possible - that's to be expected. Startups, second tier social networks, non 'social networking' sites will ultimately implement first, and the big vendors will compete themselves towards open.

Over on Techcrunch Arrington claims:

"DataPortability founder Chris Saad was also on the call, but failed to take a leadership position in the debate (he did, however, weigh in with a blog post on the subject before the call). Their influence may be waning."

Mike, don't confuse and conflate a thoughtful position and long-term view as 'not taking a stand'.