I hang on the fence about anonymous postings. I believe that it is an individual decision to decide their identity. I know many people who have political views that if expressed online they could get fired, or religious views that could cause discrimination, and I have even faced criticism for posting about being a mom!!!!

People who have an illness and would like to be part of an online support group or post their experiences on a blog or news piece without having everyone in the world know their identity. To me, these are all valid reasons to support the ability for anonymous posts.

With that said though, I believe that if you choose to hide behind a fake name you are taking away your credibility and personal branding. That is the compromise a serious poster must make, such as the person who called you insane.

Many years ago I heard someone suggest that your blog/community is your home and you have a right to post your house rules and kick anyone out who violates those house rules. I stand by that and have little respect for communities that do not keep the content clean and relevant. It dilutes the TRUE power of social media and online conversations.