That is really analogous to what is happening in this forum presently. I wish that all posters will read it and learn something from it. But the truth is that some people will never change. They act in a similar fashion in all news groups to which they post. I may begin to post the links to several news groups where some of these guys are making a-- hole of themselves (of course with the permission of the degreeinfo moderators).
me again: I am changing my opinion about anonymity on the Internet. I am now in agreement with you that it does not make much sense to use your real name when arguing with zombies in the cyberspace.
Please forgive the following dichotomy. But it is a double edged sword: On the one hand, I perceive anonymous posters as being idiotic. On the other hand, the anon poster has the ability to post freely, without tarnishing his professional reputation (should he make a political mistake by making an outstandingly outlandish posting which he later regrets making). When we speak professionally, we oftentimes do not reveal what we truly believe. Instead, we reveal a ”toned down” politically acceptable version of what we believe: This watered down version is loved by everyone (and we can still make a politically correct statement). Okay, I apologize if I just went off on a tangent. But what the heck, I’m anon so it doesn’t matter (too much). I foresee the day when all internet anonymity is gone. So, enjoy it while you can!
I recently discovered the Ignore List, which has proved to be a wonderful way to get rid of excessively disputatious (and repetitive) verbiage. I have just two names on my list and it's made a big difference. Out of sight, out of mind...
