Jeff,
I think what you are observing reflects the increasing amount of incivility, and maybe even worse, that permeates and infects not only forums like this one but also other venues that allow commenters. I think a major cause of the incivility is the fact that people can hide behind their anonymity, and that gives them the cover they need to say things that they would never say if they had to sign their real names to their comments or if they were made face to face with a real person. Even I hide behind a cover of anonymity. But I am ever mindful of that and therefore conduct myself on the forum as I would in person or if my real name were attached to my comments. The tension between full disclosure and anonymity is not a new one. See, for example, this recent article that I found quite interesting on the subject:
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-12-13/those-diabolical-anonymous-commenters.html. As social media have become more popular, I also feel that forums that were not particularly social in the past have become more so. And, with that, people feel that they can be more open and direct with their comments. I am constantly amazed at the amount of profanity, and quite vulgar at that, that I see in many places that allow people to comment on any given topic. And no one seems to care or to flinch. It's as though you can't be cool unless you conduct yourself accordingly.
In my opinion, you are are a very good example of the type of member I like to see on the forum. You are obviously smart, you really know your stuff, you are articulate and know how to state your positions, and to the point, you care about the subject (pizza), and you are civil, respectful and helpful. That is why I always look forward to your posts. I could name many other members that fit the same profile but I would be likely to forget someone who deserves to be named. For members like you, it wouldn't matter whether you gave your real name or not. Your comments and your behavior would be the same.
Peter
