For me, the web isn't a

For me, the web isn't a replacement for reality, it truly is an extension of it.

I'm, by nature and conditioning, anti-social. This doesn't mean I exactly hate people, but I do hate the rules society imposes. The notions of what is rude and what is not, even when these things don't truly effect other people, is something I've never understood. I really do think in terms of "effeciency" and being "polite" is not often effecient - having to put up with it is so straining that I choose not to do it. All too often in meatspace being "effecient" is equal to being rude.

On the other hand, the internet allows people to frankly cut through the crap. You're not judged by how you dress (a social pressure!) or your level of education (a social pressure) or how big/cute/luxurious your car/house is (another social pressure!). Instead, if you bring a rational thought to the table, you're respected. Bring forth stupidity (aka Trolling) and you're shunned instantly.

Some people blame this on "the anonymity of the internet" but I don't agree, I think it's less the anonymity but the culture that doesn't cater to the same social norms... After all, not everyone on the internet hides behind a screen name.