Formal anonymity refers to books whose author chooses not to reveal themselves when publishing (such as Jane Austen with Sense and Sensibility). Real anonymity occurs when authorship remains unknown.
Anonymity refers to being unidentified or anonymous; in literature this refers to unnamed characters while internet culture uses this word more broadly for users who do not identify themselves.
Anonymous can be taken either positively or negatively; sometimes it refers to those doing good work without recognition; other times it refers to those hiding their identities so as to escape responsibility or accountability.
Anonymity has long been part of online culture; in particular, many users anonymize themselves on various forms of social networking for various reasons such as privacy, safety, or simply preference.
While some see anonymity as being essential for internet users to facilitate free speech and open dialogue, others believe anonymity may lead to abusive use resulting in cyberbullying or trolling activity online.
No definitive answers exist as to whether anonymity can be seen as beneficial or detrimental, it depends on both individual circumstances and environmental influences.
