Does the Internet need a Code of Conduct? Do blogs need warning labels like TV shows and movie ratings?

These are the questions being asked in response to a draft by Tim O’Reilly for a Code of Conduct. The code begins:

“We celebrate the blogosphere because it embraces frank and open conversation.”

The draft goes on to say that comments by anonymous posters should not be allowed.

I disagree. The Internet pushes the limits of free speech. The Internet allows and even encourages open discussion and debate. The Internet itself challenges the way people interact. I see all of these as good things. What we do need are for people to live up to their own responsibilites. We need parents to monitor what sites children visit. We need people to stop blaming others and accept their own responsibilities.

Every blogger understands the risk of playing in the online space. They know they are opening themselves up to the public to be talked about, blogged about and every word disected by the masses.

Regardless of where you go, either online or off, a select few will behave like asshats. The Internet is not different.

Why do you think?