Maybe these News sites, and Facebook, need to read what the U.S. Supreme Court has to say about "Annoynmous Commenting" see McIntyre v. Ohio Elections Commission, prohibiting anonymity violates constitutional rights. As to the question of federal involvement, are their federal laws governing the Internet, are their federal discrimination laws and yes they control private parties as well.12-15-2011 National:
Last Sunday's column on the end of anonymous commenting at News-Leader.com generated nearly 400 mostly anonymous comments from mostly unhappy people.
Offline, and in feedback on Facebook, the conversation was much more supportive.
Of course, since we're switching to a system using Facebook, you would expect people already there to be comfortable with the move.
In a change scheduled to take effect Friday, you will need to have a Facebook page -- and be logged into that page -- in order to comment on News-Leader.com content.
The change is being made across all Gannett websites. The goal is to eliminate anonymity in the hopes of increased civility and conversation in comment threads.
Many of our regular commenters are unhappy with the change.
"HowAboutTheTruth" wrote: "I'm disappointed they don't understand, or care, why the right to express thoughts anonymously is so important for some. Some have much to lose by openly expressing an opinion that might differ from someone they are subordinate to in the work environment. ..."
"Ethicsadvocate" added: "Sometimes things need to be written to generate thought and provoke introspection. Sometimes the objectivity of the press and those it quotes needs to be challenged. Your policy sets our community back on each of these fronts. Sad."
"Parrij" wrote: "Oh, I wonder if this is NL's way of cutting freedom of speech and controlling the media so no one says anything 'out of line' that might offend the politicians? (on both sides)"
"53068cowboy" did not think the move would change his participation. "Won't stop me! I love watching politicians and the elite squirm and pound their fist because they can't do anything about my comments of non-support."
On a Facebook post linking to my column, reaction was quite different. For example, Aleah Weltha wrote: "I, for one, applaud the change. It may not be the perfect solution but it's most definitely a step in the right direction. As it is I make a point of NOT reading the comments in N-L because they are vitriolic. Maybe now I'll be able to participate!"
Aleah is on the right track.
In the long run, we hope the change results in more people sharing ideas -- not fewer. But even if it is fewer, we expect the quality of the conversation will improve as we provide a more welcoming environment.
From my experience on Facebook, people are not shy about sharing differing views. But they do tend to be more respectful.
Won't you please join us? ..Source.. by David Stoeffler is executive editor of the Springfield News-Leader.
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