Until now, I've successfully ignored Google+. I'm happy with Facebook, and just because there is something new (and possibly better) doesn't mean I have to try it. But the recent headline 'Does Google+'s Real Names Policy Make Sense?' caught my eye.
My Facebook profile name has changed several times. At times I've included my maiden name (so long lost high school friends could find me) or omitted my last name (first and middle only, while job hunting). I've also used a nickname (I just thought it was more fun).
I've noticed that many of my younger friends, the ones who post where they are and what they are doing ten times a day, use their first and middle names only. I see this as an attempt by the 'post-it-all' generation to maintain some level of privacy. I may know that Brandi Nikki of Beavercreek is at the gym, but at least I can't look up her address in the phone book and go rob her house.
Google's response to criticism of its 'real-name' requirement is this:
Google Profiles are designed to be public pages on the web, which are used to help connect and find real people in the real world. By providing your common name, you will be assisting all people you know - friends, family members, classmates, co-workers, and other acquaintances - in finding and creating a connection with the right person online.
Some believe that using real names will encourage people to be more
responsible about what they post and encourage civility. Others argue that people in the public eye (not just celebrities, think of government employees or your local newscaster), political dissidents or those in abusive relationships will not be able to post freely without fear.What do you think? Do you use your real name on social networking sites? Is Google right to require real names?
Posts
0 comments:
Post a Comment