Anonymous comments and their authors

What motivates a person to offer a comment on a topic under a false name, or with no name at all?

Take, for example, a comment such as “This sort of flawed content isn’t worth posting”. There is a suggestion that the author has identified a flaw in the argument put forward by the originator (me).

Failing to go on and substantiate this, however, means that the comment amounts to nothing at all. Not even worth the time taken to write it. Does the originator really think that it will be given any credence? Surely not. Such a comment is worthless, whether or not it’s anonymous.

Of course, anonymity allows people to take positions and say things that they would never do if they were to be identified (given that they do not have to face any consequences for the views expressed). An argument in favour of this, is that free speech is encouraged and open debate is promoted.

All debate is obviously worthwhile, but should editors publish anonymous comments?

Obviously, all editors have their own criteria in terms of whether or not to publish something. Most editors decline to publish ‘hate speech’ or material which might be defamatory in terms of an individual. Without verifying names and addresses, however, it would seem impossible to rule against those wanting to comment on an anonymous basis.

There is no doubt, however, that comments made under someone’s real name hold the most weight. He or she is seen to stand behind their message and be accountable for it (even if not everyone agrees with them).

Lieutenant Colonel Bruce Cameron, MC, RAAC (Ret’d)

 

EDITOR’S NOTE: I run an open forum for anyone and everyone to post and comment on a broad range of military-related topics. I allow views and opinions across a wide spectrum. I even allow posts and opinions that I disagree with. I allow considered and respectful argument and disagreement. What I don’t allow is abuse. In this regard, I say “play the ball, not the man”. In other words, commenters are free to disagree with posts or comments, but without abusing the author.
I have on many, many occasions edited or deleted comments for breaches of this rule. Most times, I will write to the author to explain my reasons. Sometimes not.
All authors and commenters should be aware that while your public profile may be ‘anonymous’, your email address is always visible to me – you cannot contribute to the CONTACT platform without divulging your email address as a minimum.
I wholeheartedly agree that standing behind your argument is the ultimate in credibility – and anonymity often signals cowardice – but, in the military world, anonymity is often the only safe way to ‘have a voice’.

 

Composite image produced with the assistance of ChatGPT

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