i think there are some solid reasons for things the way they are. As an example, I don't think Kiya would continue her group if it were spammed by fundamentalists or anybody else.
The purpose of a moderator is to remove lewd or abusive postings especially if they are hurtful. (this is my opinion, i am not a moderator here.
As far as equating privacy with secrecy, there are no restrictions on your persons from private messaging each other and secretly chatting here or using some gmail dropbox if you think you need that. It shouldn't or needn't involve docJohn especially if something happens on those threads that could cause a legal problem that might endanger the future of psychcentral for the rest of us. of course i can give examples but wouldn't because i am not going to play the game of putting those ideas in somebody's head. suffice to say some horrible things happened on the internet in japan a few years ago and those who are well read will know what i mean.
docjohn is doing a great job here. he doesn't own the internet. if you have a need he doesn't provide that's perfectly ok cause he's not your daddy. I get a lot out of this site and i am willing to accept its limitations just as i am capable of recognizing the humanity and failings of the many kind people who also help me stay well in real life.
-pi