Those still hoping that Google (NASDAQ: GOOG) will back down from its insistence on using real names for its Google+ social network may have to simply bear with it--or go elsewhere.

In an interview with NPR's Andy Carvin, Google Chairman Eric Schmidt revealed that Google+ was built primarily as an identity service. In a Google+ post, Carvin paraphrased: "Fundamentally, [Google+] depends on people using their real names if they're going to build future products that leverage that information." A full transcript of the interview with Carvin can be found here.

These remarks, as well as Schmidt's noting how participation in Google+ is "completely optional," have led to a flurry of indignant blog posts about Google's motives. Some questioned whether Google built its social networking service to serve users or only with its own interests in mind.

Personally, I think it should be obvious that none of the social networks are charities. While there are many ways to turn a profit, the easiest and most effective ways entail using of the huge trove of personal information inherent in a social network.

Rather than end up disillusioned, it may be wiser for users to carefully consider what they share on social networks.

For more:
- check out this article at CNN
- check out this article at PCWorld
- check out this article at Mashable

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