Back in the 90s we couldn't think of using our real names on the web. It was just not the way it worked back then. Being anonymous, using alias, pseudonym, nicknames, etc. was very much encouraged and it was beautiful. I still feel strange when using my real name on social networks. Unless you have to use it for professional reasons, or to promote a work your developing, I don't see much use in exposing your real name on the internet. I'm still pro nicknames and I intend to use one whenever possible. Even in real life we don't walk around in the streets with a badge with our name. Why should we do it on a virtual world? :)
Yeah, I remember my parents telling not to use my real name or give out any personal details on the internet, for my own safety. Anonymity was for our own protection. Today the idea seems to be the opposite, you should give out as much information as possible to stay safe, and anonymity is only for cyber bullies, terrorist and child pornographers.