Confused

[kethni]

On my flist this morning I have 3 different people from 3 different fandoms who have all signed up for an anonymous feedback meme. I mention the different fandoms just to show that how widespread this thing apparently is. Anyway, here's my question:

Why?
Is it like some kind of fanfic coming of age ceremony? 'If you can survive being ripped to shreds by people cowering under a shield of anonymity then you can call yourself a fanfic writer!'

I'm honestly confused why people are signing up knowing how vicious, ugly, and nasty these things get. Maybe some fandoms are all sweet and fluffy and it's all 'I love you's' and 'you're the best!' But I doubt it. Human nature is that if you give someone a mask to hide behind all the maliciousness and cruelty come spilling out.

If people think you're a great writer/beta/human being they'll find a way to tell you. If they think you're a shitty writer/beta/human being why would you want to know? Even on the 'positive feedback only' meme's it always seems as though some troll sneaks in and poisons the water.