Bill, I think you are strictly framing journalism as a profession rather than considering journalism as an ideology, and a way of being in the world, and understanding the world. In the latter perspective, which I recommend highly, comments are a part of journalistic discourses. They share the same basic space (physically and conceptually), so they should have some fundamental standards. My argument is really simple. If you work for (or lobby for) a particular special-interest group, then you should disclose that background when you comment on that particular topic. If you do not, you inherently present yourself as something you are not, unaffiliated and independent (of the substructure you belong to). ... And in terms of being your Reader Rep, whether you agree with me or not, my role is to prompt and foster these types of important societal discussions. Whether I agree with you or not, I appreciate your participation, and I hope you continue to promote civil discourse here.