Anonymity Discussion

I've come to believe that there is a certain time and place for anonymity. The internet has provided an outlet through which any person in any part of the world can have a say. Some people want to be acknowledged, some people want to remain behind an alias. Some say that while using one's real name, the incentive to be respectable and credited properly leads people to more professionally and honestly express their opinion. However, there are many places on the internet where anonymity can be a blessing. There are situations when attaching a name to oneself can prove to be harmful and potentially dangerous. People want to be able to communicate with each other through forums and discussions that spark group interest. The idea of putting your name out there can make situations very personal and can increase the risk of opposing interests and personal threat. For example, I've been told about a certaint community group that is formed through LiveJournal. Only members with cases of eating disorders are admitted to the site, and all remain anonymous via screen name. This community thrives on the idea of anonymity, where people can trust each other without revealing their true identity, and, as posted on the Jennings site, can "reinvent themselves."

Jennings represented people’s views who stood for or against anonymity. He posted arguments on both sides, and incorporated specific examples of online forums and services. The concept of posting anonymously anywhere on the internet can have its downfalls. With the lack of censoring, people can either freely speak their mind or just as easily provide intentional opposition if not hatred. The excerpts he used from other people’s blogs definitely helped contribute to the “story.” As an ever-changing battle, it becomes important to objectively view the subject at hand and hear both sides to the story before one can make an educated decision on their personal verdict.