Who or what are we?
The internet with its anonymity allows us to vent, express our thoughts, emotions, prejudices etc
Yet are we anonymous ?
By name and location perhaps, but by nature, far from it
The written word, unable to be erased (I am taking a liberty here) when read is just as relevant in forming an opinion of just who and what we are
I wonder how many would use terminology on the net that they do not use normally? in effect letting the reader form an opinion of them which those under normal? circumstances may not1
Given the power of the net, I guess only a fool would contemplate that should they act outside their normal? behaviour, they will continue to get away with it
What, I wonder ,is the need to hide?
Sure, today what with all the spying done, people tend toward protecting their privacy, but if carried on into their private life, does this not lead to isolation?
Reflecting on the past, not just my own, but even further back, I have been struck (ouch!)(warped humour!) by the sense of community, the assistance offered, the willingness to change things that needed changing
This has only been possible because people knew and respected the strengths and weaknesses of their fellow travellers and united in a common bond
It maybe argued that the net provides this to some extent, yet the very nature of it, in my opinion also defeats it, primarily due to the fact that likeminded individuals live far apart, in different countries under different regimes
I have been fortunate to have met many individuals via the net, and for this I am grateful, for it allows me to see the otherside of the coin, so to speak
It is one of the reasons I use at times an individuals name, for to me it has substance, rather then just another blogger?
Methinks that if we want a better world, we have to know who and what we are dealing with rather then a guessing game, where an individual constantly changes his/her identity from site to site
What say you peasants? (those familiar with "Blackadder" will appreciate)

Yes I know, a good nite at the club partaking of the "fruit of the vine" , rambling............
Arohanui
shalom
Bill