Earlier this year, when my name was being mentioned on a lesser-known website and app, Fishbowl, I began to explore its potential. Initially, it was an unfamiliar platform, where a debate about my writing style was taking place. However, involvement in this exchange introduced me to the benefits that Fishbowl could bestow upon the legal profession.
The concept of anonymous communications has always intrigued me. From the days of the Honesty Box on Facebook to anonymous email applications for tipping off news outlets, the appeal of anonymity is undeniable. The notion that people will be more forthright and critical when their identities remain obscured is rooted in the historical traditions of public discourse, exemplified by American figures like Benjamin Franklin and John Marshall, and embodied in the authorship of the Federalist Papers.
Anonymity on Fishbowl means that individuals are more willing to share gossip and insights about the legal profession than they might elsewhere. The ability to add to the narrative anonymously amplifies the depth of information available about a given legal workplace situation. This openness often proves invaluable to other legal professionals. Furthermore, this anonymous platform encourages candid conversation, as it enables people to ask questions more freely without the fear of revealing their identities.
Transparency is crucial to the legal profession, a field characterized historically by guarded practices. With platforms like Fishbowl, stories of questionable behaviour at workplaces can come to the fore, shining a light on problems shared collectively, potentially prompting higher standards of conduct in the workplace.
However, there are inevitable drawbacks to an anonymous forum. Content can oftentimes be unkind or harsh. It is, unfortunately, part of the internet package deal where, but personally, I believe the merits of anonymous conversation outweigh the demerits.
So, for the legal profession, platforms like Fishbowl, that promote transparency on workplace happenings, are greatly needed. For discussions on less newsworthy topics or for gaining candid industry advice, Fishbowl provides an excellent outlet. The original post, entitled “Fishbowl is a Great Gossip App and Website for Legal Professionals” can be found here.