Although I have openly criticized the use of aliases to post negative comments or attacks while hiding one's true board identity, I have also long been a strong advocate of the prudent use of aliases in other, more positive ways.

Some people use aliases to 'classify' the content of their posts.  Certain aliases may be used for posting investigative reports, meet & greet announcements, helpful advice, or other similar types of useful information.  Using aliases in this way has two benefits:  1) it allows readers to immediately identify the likely content of a post without actually opening the message, and 2) it makes searching the message board for a particular type of post much easier by being able to search on the specific author.

Another valid reason for using an alias is to take on a 'character' for the purpose of having a little light-hearted fun.  Using aliases for just funnin' around is not only okay, but also has the blessing of the TER moderators and staff.  The entire 'terrorist' series of aliases quickly comes to mind as good-natured fun, and helps make this lively online community what it is.  There was even a "FUNNIEST ALIAS CONTEST" thread on the General Discussion board a few months ago, where people created and posted their favorite amusing aliases. Some of the entries were simply hilarious:
http://www.theeroticreview.com/discussion_boards/viewmsg.asp?BoardID=12&MessageID=171554

Other uses of aliases include providers who create and post with an alias that better matches their known working name, and hobbyists who prefer to be able to participate on the discussion boards without divulging their review history.  Both of these reasons are legitimate.

Based on the dictionary definition of 'alias' (see below), one could successfully argue that each and every user name on TER is actually an alias.  I don't think anybody that posts here actually registered their given name...

-----------------------
a•li•as
n.
An assumed or additional name; a name that has been assumed temporarily.
-----------------------

Lastly, the following statement appears at the top of each discussion board on TER:

“Please do not post messages that are simply mean, or meant to cause trouble for trouble's sake.”

If everyone follows those simple instructions, it really makes no difference if an alias is used to post or not.


- atl_mgr


-- Modified on 5/21/2006 11:54:59 PM

I totally agree. If the public ever found out about my peccadillos it might compromise her career and my reputation.

After having seen, been flamed by, and now experinced Cowboytoo getting flamed by Alias clad posters, I am seriously reviewing whether or not to keep paying for my VIP membership.

I joined in 2001 as a paying member in order to search a specific lady's reviews.  This served me well.

After OFC hit the Big Dog, I was glad to be here.  After HotlantaAsp imploded, I was once again, glad to be here.

I find this is not the fun loving place it once was.  If I try to joke with a lady, some White Knight (just learned that term) comes charging in on an alias.

If my point of view (POV) is not in line with the 3 or 4 primary posters, the flaming begins.

Quite frankly, this has become the sand box of a very few.  With little or NO tolerence for a different point of view.

I am sad to see this board deteriorate.

Alias usage for the Inspector Gadget (who I use and truly do appreciate the amount of effort puts into that) is the exception to the rule.  Most alias usage is mean spirited and just a way for cowards to hide behind words they would not speak if their identity was to be known.

I have used the Lostbear moniker on all the boards I have been a member of, I never needed the cover of an alias.

Still Sad,

Sad Bear

-- Modified on 5/22/2006 5:26:59 AM

-- Modified on 5/22/2006 6:22:00 AM

interject humor.  See President Clintons post above.  Its also a very effective way to put a smile on the face of a good friend, I hope.

Out,
Luis

recently that I have more than 800 aliases. I think the boards should be a source of Amusement, and NOT a purely informational forum. Those that have no sense of humor,  don't like jokes, or a little "ball busting", can always go watch Oprah or Ellen Degeneres.

I really love employing what I call the "situational alias".  Atl Mgr is correct that ALL names on these boards are made up. (Some are just more creative, original, or outlandish than others). "Smelly Smegma" is offensive to some, (usually the Oprah/Ellen fan club), but the name has become my defacto handle. My inane "Smelly Smegma" moniker made NY Magazine in an article about online escorts.(Almost no one knows me by my username). I usually employ "Smelly" on day to day  basis, but draw from a large stable of aliases  situationally. (I also create aliases as situations/threads warrant). TER is supposed to be a FUN place for Entertainment, as well as information!!!  Have fun!  Aliases ARE fun, and add a little life to what are sometimes boring boards!

-- Modified on 5/22/2006 6:39:41 AM

But it was nice of you to join in the discussion.  

Ooops,

My Bad.

No offense intended, rather compliment.

Still Lost,

Lost Bear

any info or comments by alas's are not worth the time to read, unless they are a joke or something for fun.  Yep, they and the alias's are nothig but a joke. If somone has somethig to say, they should be enough of a lady or man to use thier real handle. If not, then it shows the type of person they are.  IMHO   JPW

To be a terrorist, and To be mentioned as an example of good faith in alias/terrorism.
Lighten UP !!
Most peeps that use the alias function for shite.. Eventualy get caught.
tyvm,P.T.

For you, I shall,  and really I could give a rats a as the subject is not worth the effort. What goes around, comes around.  Hey, when are we to have lunch or dinner again,  hell I have $4.56 in my pocket and it burning a hole in it(grin)  Is McD's near you LOL>  Hey ribs sound good,  and hmmm, who should I have for dessert?   Lv and Licks.   Little Licker Boy   OOOPPPPS I mean JPW(grin)  

-- Modified on 5/23/2006 7:48:48 AM