The Digital Civilizations Interviews

The question of identity in digital networks will be one of the pressing questions in the years ahead. Can we think about it in terms of the opportunities it offers to individuals and organisations alike, rather than just in terms of the potential risks and threats? In other words, can we think about digital identity as a form of capital, a resource, a means by which individuals can control their life in society, and – for organisations – as a source of innovation and creation of worth, without forgetting about the safety, privacy, ethics, and collective control issues at hand? The term “digital identity” will cover much more than basic “identification,” even when that is supplemented by profile information. In the context of ambient intelligence, its reach will go far beyond the web to, at the very least:

• “Attention data” and other traces
• Self expression via blogs, IMs, etc.
• “Presence” and location
• Others' point of view
• Collective existence, memberships, projects, acknowledgements, participation...

The idea of “active identities” doesn't necessarily mean that all users will have shrewd and permanent control over how their identity is portrayed , but rather (1) that these identities will be activated as resources, means of action, and forms of presenting oneself and (2) the availability of value-added tools and services that will expand our ability to act and react within a minimum amount of time.