Starting next month the Huffington Post is putting an end to its anonymous commenters. All users will have to create verifiable accounts with the HuffPost. Although names do not have to be attached to each comment, random commenters without accounts will not be allowed to post. The HuffPost explained that choosing accountability over anonymity will improve its content, cause commenters to own up to their posts and develop its online community. Also, this would get rid of trolls that fill up precious on-screen space.
What led them to this decision? Will it improve the comments and the quality of the HuffPost? Or will it scare legitimate commenters away? Does this open the door to personally attacking HuffPost users? Are you an online commenters? Do you prefer anonymity? Why?
Guest:
Jimmy Soni, Managing Editor, the Huffington Post Media Group