I've recently joined a different, unrelated discussion list where membership is mandatory. The moniker used is usually something clever but not a name, or if it is a name, it is just one part. Like Mudcat, others know only as much as you want them to. I have found that site to be a pleasure to peruse and contribute to, because there isn't the sniping and trolling that turns up so often here.

Mudcat requires a tougher hide, if you plan to stick with it, because chances are really good that you're going to offer a personal view on something that will catch the eye of or upset one of the trolls who will attempt to derail the discussion, effectively bringing the subject of the conversation around to them and their behavior. This is its own reward for such sociopaths. In addition to a few guests, we've had some really obnoxious members. Martin Gibson, Gargoyle, and ClintonHammond are three I know of who have been banned. There are others who left before my time. For all I can tell, they're the ones behind the obnoxious guests who come in with various guest IDs (or not) these days.

It is important that those considering joining be able to look around and talk to others. My advice is to go ahead and take the plunge. You can leave if you decide it doesn't fit. I'd prefer that all who join discussions here be members.

SRS