Should members on social websites such as HOL use their real names, or is it acceptable to hide behind made up names? Do this affect the way people interact online?
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Some of us meet down at the pub and as a result do know who OAE is! But there are many others using odd little names that frankly mean nothing at all. I think using ones real name helps with establishing better online interaction.
To use a current analogy. There are plenty of protesters in central London right now happy to put their point across and show their face. There are others with their faces covered ....
this web site is too public to disclose a lot about yourself on, i think. there are all sorts who visit, and i dont particularly want them to know what road i live on etc.
The idea is a non-starter -
mainly because it isn't possible to regulate the proper sounding name either, or how do you suggest we check that it's the real name or not?
OAE was making exactly that point...
On other forums, some people write under their 'handle' but often add their 'real' forename as a signature..
I think it should be up to people to call themselves what they want..
p.s. didn't I mention before? - my real name is Ferdinand - or was that on another Forum?
Not talking about regulation by this site. Just interested in the dynamics around how people present themselves (ie. openly with their real name or secretly behind a made up name). I have more respect for the former approach.
There was a very good example today with someone coming in from a nearby neighbourhood anonymously and causing a stir. Easy to do anonymously I'd say.