Reviewers Anonymous

I agree with most of what you've said, Nick. But I have to say that yes - generally, I'd prefer for the reviewer to sign his or her name. It's a little paranoid, but the some Anonymous reviews are a little odd - and the feeling that it could be "just anyone out there" means it feels like "everyone except the people you know it's not." It's a little like having the right to confront your accuser in court. Even though you may have no leg to stand on - you may, in fact, be guilty as charged - it's only fair to know where the accusation comes from.

On the rare occasions I've sent anonymous (critical) reviews, I'd generally sign my name once I was sure the recipient wasn't going to go a bit psycho in response, turning a simple review into a drawn out argument or flamewar.

Having said that, I'm only talking about the natural human response to Anonymous - not saying that Anonymous should feel obligated to justify himself or respond. It's a tool that can be used or abused, like many others.