Some people have a distinct 'self-image' and want to appear that way to others....But, they may also have aspects of their personality that they realize doesn't fit that image and, sometimes, opinions that are out of character.....

Now, in person it is not easy for many to just SAY something to a member of their group which may be inflammatory and critical. How often have you wished you could tell someone you basically liked and got along with that they were all wet on subject 'X'?...Some do, but it can affect a relationship or worse...most of us stifle critical remarks when we have to face the person....but this is different!.. With a little effort, you can gripe about something and still preserve your image for other times.

....the trouble is, it can get to be addictive to freely rail against what you feel to be the stupidities of others and vent your pet peeves without 'you' being linked to it.

People used to scribble graffiti, or write letters to the editor, or call radio talk shows...but this internet/WWW thing has REALLY allowed anonymous commentary to take off, and most of us have had only 1-4 or 5 years to come to terms with the rules and the INTERNAL needs....and some never will!

I reply on some threads, but I am 'passing' on more & more. I am really working on deciding which of my opinions NEED to be visited on others, and how they might best be presented to have any chance of being heard and respected....One thing is sure, yelling and sniping seldom help!

I am reminded of an OLD Peanuts comic strip,,,Lucy is standing in front of her younger brother, Linus....

"Change your mind!", she yells.
"CHANGE YOUR MIND, I SAY!"
"I DEMAND THAT YOU CHANGE YOUR MIND".....
...in the last panel, she is walking away grumpily, musing..." I wonder why it's so hard to get people to change their minds these days?"