I have an interesting further discussion topic on this.  As far as I can tell there are ways to protect your anonymity when using bitcoin (i.e. ewallet mixing strategy as discussed here https://en.bitcoin.it/wiki/Anonymity).  Unfortunately, it is very inconvenient.  In this sense I agree with the initial post.  However, an argument could be made that a more open transaction record could actually be a strength to the currency.

1. It could make it easier for us to fight back against hackers or bitcoin thieves.

2. The governments may be less threatened by the currency if they feel they can track where money is going.  With bitcoin in its early stages it is vulnerable to massive government attacks.

Please reply with any thoughts you may have on this.  Agree or disagree.  I'm just looking for different points of view.

I have been using nothing but ubuntu linux for 4 years now.  I find that it is fairly easy to use.  The installation process is pretty easy if you follow the instructions on ubuntu.com.  I have borrowed windows computers at times and I don't know how people can deal with the antivirus scans all the time.  It's so convenient on linux to not have to worry about virus scans.