Is there a new format or am I noticing things?

Since about yesterday, I have noted a long Facebook 'like' tab at the bottom of each post.. Is this new, and if so, why should Facebook be given such attention?

In the scheme of things today this may be trivial, however I have never been a fan of facebook (or joined) and generally believe it has not been good for society, although I appreciate it has helped many people in small businesses and families stay in touch.