Digital anonymity is the higher-level concept being discussed, but the underlying issue which it relates to is that of a chilling effect, which is a timeless phenomenon.

> The "chilling effect" refers to a phenomenon where individuals or groups refrain from engaging in expression for fear of running afoul of a law or regulation.

> Laws that chill free expression do not provide the appropriate level of breathing space for First Amendment freedoms.

https://www.thefire.org/research-learn/chilling-effect-overv...