On Being (and Staying) Anonymous

What does it mean to be anonymous?

Here’s a quick tour through a few biblical, cultural, and philosophical/theological perspectives.

From a biblical perspective:
There are multiple times throughout the ministry of Jesus where he encourages his followers to keep silent about his true identity. In some ways it seems as though Jesus wanted one season of his life to remain hidden from the masses. Of course, we know how the story ends – his true identity is revealed and rest, as they say, is history.

From a cultural perspective:
Within some non-Western societies, the idea that one can have ownership of words is unknown. For example, when discussing plagiarism, the whole notion of a person “owning” certain words or phrases is unknown in various cultures.

From a philosophical/theological perspective:
St. Augustine is attributed with the notion that “all truth is God’s truth” regardless of where it emerges.

Why am I bringing these items into this blog’s conversation? For those who have been part of this blog since it’s inception, it probably comes as no surprise that I will use the departure of A. Amos Love as a chance to discuss the notion of anonymous posting.

I have read the “management’s” reasoning about the anonymous posting policy and it continues to trouble me for several reasons.

First, the idea of emerging suggests that everyone is moving in some direction. But, we all have different starting points. Perhaps there are some people who genuinely believe that they cannot provide their name. If this blog is intended as a safe forum for discussion, what if there is no where else they can go? Suggesting that everyone should at least be able to provide a name, in my opinion, stifles the honesty that may provided. If someone is still thinking through the ideas here – ideas that have openly been called heretical – shouldn’t a little anonymity be allowed and welcome?

Second, how much do we really know from those who have posted names? With the exception of Bill, Brian, Fran, and Dan H., I have not met any other regular posters face-to-face (I apologize if I missed someone), nor have they met me. Why draw the line at a name? Why not a picture? Do we really know “where people are coming from” by the little that is listed online?

I am NOT suggesting full disclosure. I think some things should remain hidden. I have no problem with the anonymity that exists on this blog. Sometimes I think the efforts to disclose our identities is an effort to make the internet something it is incapable of being.

Third, and perhaps most important, what about those who keep their ideas “anonymous” within their congregations? They may post here to explore and think through ideas but when in the presence of real people, they fear to share what they write here. Perhaps they know full-well that their leadership will never read their posts and therefore write things that they would never say in person. That is where a much dire trouble lies – not in the fact that some people post ideas without signing a name.

Feel free to disagree [as long as you sign your name!!]

I’ll share my own identity while I try to protect the identity of others. If anyone wants further information about me, follow my profile for a picture and further information on my employer’s website.