I actually feel that Facebook got it somewhat right, by focussing on networks of people that know each other in real life, and requiring/strongly encouraging real names.
By tying the things you say to you, and your reputation among your actual peers, you're more likely to think twice before posting something needlessly hurtful or provocative.
The ability to act anonymously online is obviously important in many contexts, such as seeking mental health advise or indulging in strange yet benign hobbies. But for political speech, communities requiring real names would seem preferable.
By tying the things you say to you, and your reputation among your actual peers, you're more likely to think twice before posting something needlessly hurtful or provocative.
The ability to act anonymously online is obviously important in many contexts, such as seeking mental health advise or indulging in strange yet benign hobbies. But for political speech, communities requiring real names would seem preferable.