Do our answers here define us to quite an extent? Or, are we simply freaking out sheltered by anonymity?

Question

Well, anonymity could also give us the freedom to express our innermost thoughts and ideas. This question is obviously more apt over here in the philosophy section, for it is always difficult to say which answer is right or which is not. So, are we freaking out opening up our real personality over here due to the anonymity advantage?

Answer 1

I've thought about this question as well, and am glad you asked it. I think the answer is "a little bit of everything."

I've seen people who (like myself) actually attempt to give meaningful answers that genuinely express personally held positions, and which are arrived at after serious reflection.

I've also seen answers that are nothing but vapor being released by class-clowns who wouldn't know an idea if they tripped over it.

Bottom line -- I think by looking at the answers (and questions)you can tell a great deal about the level of maturity and education of the people here present.

Answer 2

Yes the anonymity allows us to be completely honest. We show our 'true' colours. Our colleagues, friends and family may not even realise what we really think.

Societal barriers hold us back because of our instinctual need to protect our social ties, as strong relationships are key to survival in the animal world (we are animals after all).

But here (online) we are able to say things that may offend family, friends and colleagues for various reasons. For example: My family are fundamentally religious, so I do not verbalise my thoughts on religion to them, as it brings on a torrent of 'preaching' and worry. I would rather they stay happy and not worry about where my soul is going. By keeping my thoughts to myself in the 3D world, I protect my relationship with them - and that is very important to me.

I wouldn't call it 'freaking out' either. The freedom we have here is healthy. Some people have nobody to express their true feelings to - sadly. And for those people it's important to be able to express those feelings and work through the reason and logic supporting those beliefs and feelings. This kind of forum also allows us to be confronted by other people's views without starting a row. We can read other people's thoughts on a subject and not be offended personally, it also gives them a chance to explain their position on any given topic.

It doesn't define us - it helps us define our true selves.

Answer 3

Small
Your question is fit for Socrates; but let me try.
Almost each one of us is different in Public view & different ( without affectation ) in seclusion , when / where none is watching.Some few are the same everywhere.Anonymity does loosen one's shackles , but then again it depends on the individual.The answers do reflect one's personality.
Unlike in mathematics, ( where only one answer is right ) over here several answers are correct , upto a different level , in each case.
I leave it at that.

Answer 4

that quite depends on your self realization.
or the progress of it, till now.
does it matter who one is in public, when one is unknown to oneself?
what are we looking for, when we pose these questions on public forums riddled already with anonymity?
this is a virtual world, is it not?
whatever the response to a query, how does one judge if it is coming straight from a mind poised in the doubt, or from a mischievous 'copy+paste' from Google results?
to wit, friend, the very act of logging onto the internet is the pre-established basis of bias, obscurity, inscrutability, un-sense (as different from 'non').
so when one prepares and releases a question into this digital ether, one also needs to reconcile one's inquisitive mind with the un-reality of it all, whatever be the response.
now, would you really want to add to this conundrum the corruption of perspective, interpretation and perception?
Ah, for the search of Truth.

Answer 5

our answers define us...but at the same time we might answer differently on a different day...yes we are sheltered by our anonymity but we still speak...we communicate...although we may change...we grow when we speak and talk to others...and are open enough to encompass our and others thoughts...

Answer 6

mostly u give "correct" answers with a twist or so;

rest of the time -
it is a forum to express your "true" feelings,
and you r feeling of "relief", of the chest;
and u r able to amuse some one,
with light hearted answers ; bemuse ur self;

so, let it continue ---
it is win-win situation for all of us;

many-ques!!!

Answer 7

My name is David von Rudisill, my adress is 2414 1/2 east main street, DONT GIVE A ****!

Answer 8

in the imaginary world of emotions there is no rule that any answer can be declared right or wrong. healing is good

Answer 9

if you are,others may not be.