Excerpt from a Friday Press article in the Op/Ed section that I think is appropriate for discussion on this site. Signed, Anonymous
“Protecting anonymous speech is one of American law's most noble ventures. As Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens once wrote, "Anonymous pamphlets, leaflets, brochures and even books have played an important role in the progress of mankind. The decision in favor of anonymity may be motivated by fear of economic or official retaliation, by concern about social ostracism, or merely by a desire to preserve as much of one's privacy as possible. Whatever the motivation ... the interest in having anonymous works enter the marketplace of ideas unquestionably outweighs any public interest in requiring disclosure.
A post on a comment board might have far greater reach than a sign on a lawn or a shout in a public square, but the same theory applies. There will be painful episodes along the way, but making an aggrieved party first submit proof that he has been damaged by an anonymous comment is a good way to protect the rights of those who have something to say.”
Maryland's highest court this month decided that anonymous comments on Web message boards have and deserve extraordinary protection. Someone who wants to sue you for anonymous libel must step into the mosh pit of the comment boards and try to persuade you to come forward, because the courts will not tell a Web site to reveal your identity.....and it's a nice protection for those who have serious information to put out there but fear retaliation if they attach their names to their message.
The full article, see Washington Post article here.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
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3 comments:
Very good article!
I'm sure there are countless people here in Mullica who see or hear things every day that are wrong but don't want to get involved.
From the rumors I've heard, the leaders of the various clubs, associations,Depts.,boards, etc. have told their people not to write in here.
Nobody should have control of your freedom of speech.
If something is wrong, it will continue to be wrong until it is brought out in the open.
I would encourage everyone who sees bad, unfair, illegal or stupid actions to write in.
Even your opinions on any matter might change the way this town is operated for the better.
Your comments on this page are truly anonymous.
Let the town know what you know and put an end to all the bullies and their secret control.
Use your freedom of speech while you still have it.
Start blowing your whistles!
I definitely think that the Gadfly is a service to the community.
I have read this site for years and alot of good discussions have taken place here.
My main objection would be the use of personal descriptive adjectives that portray a person's physical appearance. I also think that a person's home and family life should be off limits unless there is illegal activity going on.
There are so many issues to discuss intelligently without sinking to name calling.
If we stick to the subjects and what people are saying and doing, maybe we can accomplish meaningful change for the better without hurtful resentment.
Ok, I'll stay away from physical descriptions because there are plenty of adjectives left to express my dissatisfaction with the mental processes (or lack of) of some of our officials.
You're right, a beard is a very minor thing to write about if you're looking at two faces under it.
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