Books in a library are signed by authors and publishers are identified.
In some cases, but there are plenty of instances of authors using pen names, anonymous sources, etc.
if participants had to identify themselves with their true name, address and e-mail. Some forums work that way.
I have no fear of identifying myself publicly. I've met quite a few people off of here, and they all pretty much stick to their guns in person, which I fully respect. But on a side note, the only truly FREE SPEECH is anonymous speech. It's the great equalizer. You can then explore why I think the way I do.
Of course, the net is a medium. Anything functioning in public space, whether a magazine, billboard, neon or virtual reality, is, so it differs from a friendly chat in the privacy of one's own home.
This forum is private property. You're a member of a private club. We're in the privacy of our homes, having a chat.