- #1
avant-garde
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Should every individual be forced to wield a National ID? Why or why not?
Should We Mandate National ID Cards?
- Thread starter avant-garde
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Discussion Overview
The discussion centers around the question of whether a National ID card should be mandated for every individual. Participants explore various implications, concerns, and perspectives related to identity security, government oversight, and the effectiveness of existing identification systems.
Discussion Character
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- Some participants argue that a National ID card is necessary due to the inadequacies of current identification methods, such as the Social Security card, which is seen as insecure and not intended for identification purposes.
- One participant shares a personal experience of identity theft and the challenges faced when refusing to disclose their Social Security number, suggesting that a more secure national identification system is needed.
- Others reference the UK's implementation of a National ID card, noting both potential benefits, such as enhanced security, and concerns regarding costs and privacy, particularly with government oversight.
- A humorous remark is made about the perceived over-promises of the UK's National ID card, suggesting it could solve various unrelated issues, indicating skepticism about its effectiveness.
- Another participant questions the practicality of the claims made about the UK's National ID card, particularly in relation to weather at Wimbledon, highlighting a sense of irony in the discussion.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express a range of views on the necessity and implications of a National ID card, with no clear consensus reached. Some support the idea while others express skepticism or critique the proposed benefits.
Contextual Notes
Participants' arguments reflect a variety of assumptions about security, privacy, and the role of government in personal identification. The discussion includes references to specific national contexts, which may influence perspectives.
- #2
Astronuc
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I already have one, actually two including the state driver's license. There are several national databases, and they do a good job of keeping tabs - unless . . . .
- #3
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... unless someone steals your identity.Astronuc said:
We do have a card that serves as a de facto national ID card. The problem is, the Social Security card was never intended to be used as an ID card. The protections are minimal (at best), which is one of the reasons we have such an identity theft problem in the US.
For a long time, I simply refused to give out my Social Security number when asked for it. My response to "What's your Social Security number?" was "None of your business. It's private." That worked for several years, until some bright boy figured out that, while they (insurance company/loan company/etc.) could not compel me to reveal my Social Security number, they were not compelled to file my insurance claim, give me a loan, etc. if I refused.
So we're stuck in a situation where a national ID scheme is needed and the only one available is incredibly insecure. Had you asked me twenty years ago about a national ID card I would have responded NO plus a choice expletive or two. I have since done a 180 on the concept. We need one.
- #4
mgb_phys
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The UK is getting one which will not only stop terrorism and save children but will apparently stop it raining on Wimbledon while allowing a British player to win.
There were concerns about the cost and government snooping but it's now going to be run by a private company so no worries there .
There were concerns about the cost and government snooping but it's now going to be run by a private company so no worries there .
- #5
Evo
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mgb_phys said:
- #6
russ_watters
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I don't understand - isn't it supposed to rain at Wimbledon? That's the whole reason for having it in England!mgb_phys said: