Is signing up through LinkedIn the only option? For a brand new, unheard of web site, I'd really rather just create a new account that is not directly tied to my professional networking account. If I like what I experience with the site, then I might want to tie in external accounts later. If it's the only option, I am not joining.

This registration strategy seems at odds with the "anonymity" the site markets.

On a positive note, I do believe that community rating of content is a useful mechanism, and connecting yourself and your content to certain areas of interest can also help others find people and content that may be relevant. It's hopefully a more structured way to find your way around than Twitter's hashtag stew.

Good luck in all you do!