If you can, have a peek at New Threats to Academic Freedom published in the November issue of Bioethics. The author, Francesca Minerva, argues that anonymity might represent a way to shield academics from the repercussions of public dialog when discussing sensitive matters. Academic freedom, she suggests, is a key element in sustaining the mindset for creativity and ... Continue Reading about Should Academics Publish Anonymously?
The Cloak of Anonymity Stifles Respectful Debate
Anonymity aint what it used to be. The Miami Herald announced today that it is outsourcing its comment function to Facebook. Concluding that 'the cloak of anonymity stifles respectful debate,' we must assume that they’ve had enough of those who can’t stand behind their own words. Perhaps they should have referenced the ‘cloak of pseudonymity’ since online ... Continue Reading about The Cloak of Anonymity Stifles Respectful Debate
Unprofessional Physician Behavior on Twitter
I woke up this morning to a couple of DMs from physicians alerting me to the Twitter thread seen below (tweets read bottom to top). Is it unprofessional? Decide for yourself. Whether you change details or not, the use of the social space at the comical expense of those we’re called to treat is irresponsible. While the detailed depiction of the patient's problem ... Continue Reading about Unprofessional Physician Behavior on Twitter
Can Physician Anonymity Protect Patient Privacy?
I always rail against physician anonymity on social networks. It offers the false security to say things that we otherwise would never say. Not exactly the kind of thing for building community. I’ve been thinking about privacy transgressions by physicians on public platforms like Twitter. And how do we prevent the release of PHI on physician-specific networks? ... Continue Reading about Can Physician Anonymity Protect Patient Privacy?
Anonymity Foreign to Next Generation Physicians
I had a lot of comments on the recent physician anonymity post. One stood out. It was from a medical student, Nicholas Weaver, who builds the case against anonymity. He almost makes it seem strange. It's apparent from this comment that as digital natives grow into the medical profession, open social thinking will likely become the norm rather than the exception ... Continue Reading about Anonymity Foreign to Next Generation Physicians
Doctors Shouldn’t be Socially Anonymous
I don’t think doctors should be socially anonymous. We need to be seen. Here’s why going underground isn’t good policy for physicians: Anonymity makes you say stupid things. When you’re shouting from the crowd it’s easy to talk smack. Come up to the podium, clear your throat and say something intelligent. You’re a physician, not a hooligan. It’s 2010 – ... Continue Reading about Doctors Shouldn’t be Socially Anonymous