Anonymity

Even though there's a negative view on anonymity because of its link to trolling, being able to appear as anonymous is a benefit and important. On medical forums, people are allowed to ask questions anonymously or with pseudonyms and get their (often stigmatized) medical questions answered by others who are, most of the time, also anonymous. No one on these forums really has the intention to judge those asking these questions, but instead they provide them with answers and advice and even show sympathy for them along with wishing them well. Moreover, having no identity, allows for more ideas and information to be shared and encourages others to share them as well. People may be afraid to share these ideas because of their political or social value or might just need someone to share them with. This also applies to anonymous blogs with personal content on it in which people often write about things going on in their lives which in one way or another can help someone else. Being an "anon" gives a sense of security of asking/ saying things without fear of judgement or personal attacks. It allows for others to communicate with each other better and in a more genuine way.

Having no identity online can become dangerous; however, and I'm not referring to only trolling but to other things. Still, I don't agree on taking away anonymity. In my opinion, the answer to getting rid of trolling or harassment or whatever isn't one that has to do with programming or software, but it's a process that starts within society and it's values/beliefs..