Geldon over at www.gamergod.com has posted an interesting look at the roleplaying elements in today’s MMO's or lack thereof.

Roleplaying (defined as acting "in character" to foster a more realistic environment) doesn't seem to be a popular pursuit in the modern MMORPG. We're usually quick to blame the players, saying that they're just not built for roleplaying, possibly because many of them don't know how or simply can't get over their cold feet to try. However, there are players who have genuinely attempted to roleplay and find the blame situated elsewhere.

You can read the whole article here.