Perhaps this movement of anonymous --> known happened together with the notion that internet = public square. If you want to express yourself in the public square discussion, you will not be wearing a V for Vendetta mask, at least people would recognize your face.

In my own life I make a decision whether I want to participate on certain site/network/discussion in public square fashion or not.

Taking this discussion to the WordPress world, I heard some stories of retaliation when people would raise their voice against the establishment. It's encouraging to see people like Morten and others speaking up not only using their name, but from the stage.