Originally, EP was setup as a social media site for people with shared experiences to support each other. From the Wiki page on EP:
"The nodes of the network were "life experiences", such as starting a new job, battling depression or surviving a divorce. Members who had listed experiences in common were automatically connected. Reversing the "f.r.i.e.n.d.s." concept of traditional social networks, in which connections are made between known individuals who then may or may not share experiences, on the Experience Project, connections were made based on shared experiences. The site emphasized anonymity to promote more authentic conversations that would otherwise be quelled by fear of recognition or embarrassment."