Words by Rachel

You don't have be a blogger to feel somewhat rewarded when someone gives you a comment. Whether simply to say "a job well done" or to critique your work, at least someone noticed and took the time to say something.

Simply put, comments are just one of the ways we can engage in a conversation online. One of the most active (and interesting) places I've seen for hosting online conversations is TED.com. Albeit, some commentors choose to rant, rave and complain, but there is plenty of engaging discourse that extends TED's content.

Since I'm far from a TED genius, I feel that the comments arena is a place where I, too, can engage as a member of this online community. I learn more, as this dialogue often breaks down concepts into manageable terms, and I am enlightened by the differing viewpoints.

On a recent Social Signal blog post, Rob Cuttingham talks about comments on news stories. He says, "Comments are very Web 2.0, but just tacking them on any old content isn't going to necessarily spark scintillating conversation." He also points out that membership on a blog or online community is a virtual norm in order to comment. The theory behind this seems to make sense - the individual interested enough in your site's content to register is likely the type of individual you want commenting on your blog.

Rob's blog made me ask, "Is it really that important to require membership of individuals who want to join the conversation and comment?" And, by asking this question, I started to think about the ways in which "membership" were going against the free, inclusive and engaging spirit of Web 2.0 communications. 

Regardless of membership, I still think comments are more than gratifying. They are essential to online dialogue. So, positive or negative, I welcome your 2.0 cents!