Hello! I just learned of your White Salmon Blogspot and checked it out. Looks informative. I do have one problem with it - anonymous input. Historical ethical standards require that if you are not willing to "put your money where your mouth is", keep quiet.If one can't back up his/her position or allegations with fact and hard data, then it is nothing more than gossip or unsubstantiated opinion or malicious untruths from an unknown source. Anonymity encourages slander, libel, spiteful comment, absolute untruths. Why? Because the anonymous originator does not have to accept responsibility for his/her words and the object of that irresponsibility may have no recourse. Not taking responsibility for one's actions has become a major problem in modern society. (Yeah, I am old fashioned.)I submit that anonymous commentary may be ungentlemanly, in the least, is typically a refuge of cowards and often venal in the worst. It is unworthy of being disseminated by any media and reflects poorly on the disseminator.I urge you to rethink your policy on anonymity. Herb Hardin
Monday, July 2, 2007
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5 comments:
Herb. Thanks for stating your position on anonymity. You stated it well. "Cowardly" is one way to characterize it. But I'd prefer the word "afraid" -- afraid of repercussions from the powerful elite who know how to manipulate the system to benefit themselves. In some areas of politics, we speak of "revolving doors"... but at the local level one can be on both sides of the door simultaneously, as a private developer AND a powerful public servant who sets policy.
What do other readers think about anonymity?
from an "uncourageous" reader
Using an alias for online communication is the norm. Some people do use their real names, but most do not. One never knows what kind of crack-pot may be reading your comments, so it's best to choose a nickname. Just because this is a local blog does not change anything -- it's still online and open to the world. Play it safe and use a nickname or remain anonymous.
This blog is only one of many venues for communication and having an option for being anonymous is useful. There are many other venues such as letters to the editors, coming to public meetings where you show your face and state your name when you speak that are not anonymous.
Certainly you don't believe everything just because it is posted on a blog? You can still do your own follow up research and/or post your opinion or facts to counter something you disagree with. Let's not be so scared just because some people want to be anonymous in this venue.
As for concerns about repercussions... wow. Does this happen very much? I was surprised during the last election that some folks with small businesses were afraid to post political signs that did not reflect the majority..Are there other instances?
Cricket Chirp
I have found over my 56 years and certainly during my tenure as a resident of the White Salmon area (1992-present) that being willing to state my opinion openly and without reservation has served me well. I try to make deliberate and well thought out comments whether privately or publicly. I am certainly willing to "take my lumps" for my beliefs. We all know that no one is perfect, so mistakes or errant information can be anticipated from almost anyone. Misquotes by the media or private individuals are always a possibility as well. I am not a proponent of anonymity and frankly feel that it can create distrust of information at a minimum as well as resistance and/or bad feelings towards the cause or case that is being promoted. Step up and accept the applause or take the heat for your beliefs, it is truly the only way to effect change and to make a difference.
Carl E. McNew
With all due respect, is this an age/tech culture issue? there are many of us who blog regularly without our names and find it a useful, interesting form of communication and sharing.. .
Cricket Chip
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