I got passed this post today - it's very spooky! I'm from a UK startup called Naked and we've been busy building a new social messaging/microblogging/network web-based app. The initial concept was that communication is better when you're being open and transparent - but this can't be done in even a remotely public space for most people.
So I definitely agree with you - socks, gloves and underwear are needed when standing online. Hopefully we've created a space where people feel warm enough to take off the gloves, comfortable enough to not wear socks, and safe enough to go the whole hog.
If you want to take a look please e-mail me and you can join in when we go into beta!