Name Spaces

Different identifier systems work differently some originate from physical space and others operate purely in the digital realm.

Local

A great example of a local name space in the physical world is a school classroom. It is not uncommon in american classrooms that when there is a name space clash – that is two people have the same name in the same space – they take on different names to be identifiable within that context. Take for example those with the names “Stowe” “Fen” and “Chris” – each is one part of the name Christopher : Chris – Stowe – Fer. When they were in grade school each took on a different part of the name and it stuck with them.

Global

These names spaces mean that identifiers within them are unique and global. Phone numbers, domain names and thus e-mail addresses.

Private

Some private name spaces seem like global name spaces but they are run by private companies under privately decided terms and conditions. Examples include skype handles, twitter handles,

International Registry

These are identifiers in a global space that are registered and managed globally an example is domain names.

Attributes

Self Asserted

These are attributes that people self defined. They include things that are subjective like “favorite color” or “name”

Inherent

These arise from the individual and typically do not change (such as birth date) and are not as morphable. Sex and ethnic identity are things that people have and display in the physical world that don’t (typically) change throughout one’s life.

Ascribed

These are attributes that are given to us by others or by systems. This may include names that are imposed on us by social convention and or power relationships.

Assigned

These are attributes that are given to us by others or by systems.

Examples:

Social Security Numbers are assigned by the Social Security Administration.

Conclusion

Identity is a big topic and outlining the core concepts needed to understand it was the purpose of this paper. We need to think about how the systems that manage identity are structured. Are they designed to have power over people, supporting people having power with one another or enabling power to be networked between us to create something greater then ourselves. These questions are relevant across the whole life-cycle of identity from cradle to grave.