He he I sometimes type faster
Or I can type things I may have difficulty talking about in RL

I agree with 3) and 4) though troubles can be minimized if you post in semi-private places with good moderating and good rules, and under a hidden identity.
If its true that one can be listened to and recorded via cell phones, RL conversations aren't much different than posting stuff online. But well if you've got nothing to hide...
I don't really plan for elections anyway!

But yeah, RL friendships are very important too. Very.

Internet (or computer/connection) can 'break down', people can stop frequenting forums or other hangouts... And there's just something about physical presence and doing fun things together! (Explains the success of Professional Cuddler too!!)
Too much computer time can cause depression and other problems too... So yeah, RL is important!