The Benefits of Anonymity

Online anonymity has clearly changed the way people communicate with each other. And although some may say that anonymity has produced harsher effects such as increased sexism, racism, or hate in general, I beg to differ. I don’t believe this has caused a change in the demeanor of those certain individuals, it has only shocked those who were previously oblivious to it. I do not support those that do choose to spread hate on the internet. I am simply looking at the larger picture, where the net has allowed for more freedom of speech and insight into all controversial topics of this generation. For every dark there is light, and we must focus on those that use this anonymity for the good of society. There are many situations where individuals can find comfort and support anonymously, where they could not do so in person. Going through puberty, coming out, any questions in general that we as a society have but are ashamed to ask in public, our anonymity on the web helps us get through those hard times.

The first thing to remember is that on the internet, you are communicating with all races, all genders, more importantly all ages and maturity levels. Therefore, some people may find humor in terrible, hateful things and post about it online for everyone else to see, fully knowing no one will ever discover their true identity. However, do we really think the internet provoked them to do so? Or is the internet just a new way of communicating their feelings about any given subject? It is still a moral decision we all must make to support this behavior or to criticize them on it. 

The difference between saying these terrible things to a few close friends and on the worldwide web, is that on the internet everyone will see what you post, even the group you are intending to insult. Instead of private conversations, they become open to the public. On forums, blogs, anywhere strangers are talking to strangers, there is always some people who will act tough over the computer and cowardly in person, or “trolls” as they are better known on the internet. But on an open discussion board, everyone can state their opinions and defenses on a topic. If you see behavior that you do no not support, it is your moral obligation to post your own thoughts on a subject. If everyone simply turns a blind eye to the hate, it will always exist. This is more commonly known as the freedom of speech. The internet gives us the opportunity to all discuss current issues together and share our opinions.

The power of internet anonymity is simply put by John Dvorak as “people can express themselves without fear”. Although some may use that power for evil, there is so much good that can come from it as well. Avoiding prosecution on sensitive issues that may not abide by societies rules can be much relieved by that anonymity. From thinking you are the only one who feels a certain way, to realizing there are thousand of you out there can save lives. Suicide prevention and outreach groups are always available on the internet and for some, its their last hope. The anonymity of the internet provides them with a safe place to share their feelings without judgement.

To wrap things up, we all know how easy it is to point a finger at the negativity on the internet. It is not hard to find hateful comments or posts on the web. However if we look a little harder, we can also see how beneficial it has been to this generation and to the freedom of speech we all have the right to. Without the anonymity of those evil-doers, the hate would not be presented so publicly and in a fashion where it is objectable. The internet shines a light on the cruelty of some so that others can step up and show them how to right those wrongs. The anonymity can also be a safe haven for those that do not have anywhere left to turn. Without the anonymity of the internet, we would have much held inside with nowhere to release it.