 | This is an essay. It contains the advice or opinions of one or more Wikipedia contributors. This page is not an encyclopedia article, nor is it one of Wikipedia's policies or guidelines, as it has not been thoroughly vetted by the community. Some essays represent widespread norms; others only represent minority viewpoints. |
 | This page in a nutshell: Publishing information about any living individual, particularly if that information is critical or negative, whilst hiding behind the anonymity of a screenname is unethical. Those who sign will not do it. |
Wikipedia normally allows users to edit any article without logging in or to edit by using a pseudonym (an account that does not identify the real name of the user). This policy is useful. It allows people to edit without fear of harassment, or any unjustifiable interference to their "real" life (although it does not guarantee anonymity).
However, with regard to the biographies of living people, there seems an unfairness about users being able to comment on another person, whilst withholding their own identity. Other publications may provide information or commentary on living individuals, but the authors or editors responsible for such material are publicly named. Such writers stake their real life reputations on the accuracy and fairness of what they write, and indeed may legally be held to account.
Whilst Wikipedians being sued is not something desirable, Wikipedians knowing that their personal reputation is at stake and that they are legally accountable, will encourage responsible editing. It is fair to the subject. It gives reassurance to the reader.