Today I came across a very interesting article on the front page of last Sunday's local paper. It's linked below, and deals with the issue of free speech on the internet and a lawsuit brought against "internet critics". Not critics of the internet, but people who expressed certain critical opinions of a company through an online discussion group. The article potentially brings to light many issues and questions, but three came to my mind first. I'd love to hear your general or specific thoughts about the lawsuit and/or opinions on these questions.

Should the internet be treated the same way as any other medium in situations of libel?

In an online context, it is hard to trace exactly who said what. What role does and should this 'anonymity factor' play?

What are the lawsuit's implications for us -- both as individuals and as participants in the RinkWorks forum and chat?

Gahalia