Humph - It is sort of like having the best of both worlds isn't it? In "real life" when we have a discussion, we normally know who we are dealing with. We can at least see and identify a person, even if we do not know their name.

The problem with "anonymous" posters is that they don't have the courtesy to do that. Sure we can ignore them, but I've seen many who make up "facts" and use a tone that makes them sound credible. When you question their statement, they then attact you.

If I were to divulge that Guest Humph is a well known bedwetter with ties to the communist party and an unnatural attraction to sheep, I could state that as a fact and not hurt anyone.   If Guest Humph were to make the same accusation to me, they could run and hide and come back without any stigma. Is that right??

Frankly everyone posting on these boards - even if they are members, are really anonymous. Some of us choose to use our real names, but other handles are really masks - the same a "guest". How would I know who Brucie, Bill D or Little Hawk are? Unless they choose to submit personal information, those names are just as anonymous as your "guest".    The big difference is that their "handle" is sort of a place holder. They develop a personality through their posts and when we have discussions, the rest of us have an idea of the person we are talking to.    Trolls, I mean guests, are simply spouting words that may or may not have any validity.   Why have a conversation sidetracked in such a manner?