The Identity Commons: The Role of Blockchain

"In the digital age, our identities reflect our data, and the Identity Commons ensures that we retain control over our digital selves." - Andrew Turtle

Our identity is no longer confined to the physical realm; it has become a complex and multifaceted concept in our increasingly interconnected world. We all possess it, yet paradoxically, we don't entirely own it. As we navigate the digital age, we are confronted with challenges and opportunities when it comes to managing our identities, safeguarding our privacy, and controlling our data. The balance between confidentiality and the potential of data as a valuable asset requires careful consideration and management.

The Power of Data as an Asset

Data, in its many forms, holds immense potential. It can be harnessed for many purposes, including law enforcement, but ethics and responsibility must underpin its use. This is where the management and control of data, particularly metadata generated by our daily actions and transactions, take centre stage. The solution lies in a ledger—a digital record of transactions that captures the essence of our interactions in the digital realm.

A Universal Ledger

This ledger is a comprehensive repository, encompassing data from various facets of our lives. It collects information from wearables, smart devices, online interactions, social media behaviour, professional engagements, societal transactions, and even data indirectly gathered from the Internet of Things (IoT) and intelligent infrastructure.

A Double-Layer Verification Process

Data entry into this ledger involves a meticulous two-layer verification process. The first layer ensures the accuracy and authenticity of the data as it is recorded. This layer involves personal exchanges, registrations, and our trust in experts to input data. The second layer of verification is achieved through smart contracts, confirming data exchange. Parties involved sign ledger agreements through these contracts, requiring the consensus of at least two parties for every transaction or action. This dual verification system ensures that each transaction becomes a permanent and immutable record on their respective ledgers, with data exchanged between them.

The Power of Instantaneous Data Transfer

The existence of this universal ledger, combined with instantaneous data transfer capabilities, offers incredible potential for individuals, organizations, and societies. It enables the seamless sharing of information while preserving control over confidential data. Notably, only metadata is exchanged with organizations and institutions. They may comprehend the demographic and epidemiological significance of the data, but they have limited access to an individual's details, except for what individuals choose to disclose.

Unlocking Comprehensive Data Sharing

This data exchange allows for the immediate sharing of comprehensive information, including health details, medical conditions, lifestyle factors, demographics, biometrics, education, employment history, and much more. The depth of information disclosed empowers professionals, organizations, and governments to conduct more effective data aggregation and analysis. This, in turn, enables informed decision-making and predictions based on concrete evidence.

Blockchain Technology: Making Data Accessible to All

The distributed ledger nature of blockchain technology ensures that data can be made public on every node, whether it's a computer, smartphone, or another device. This democratization of data access makes it a technology accessible to all, fostering transparency and equal access.

Aggregation and Analysis for Empowerment

To harness the full potential of this wealth of information, individuals, organizations, and governments are equipped with appropriate aggregation and analysis software. This software not only aids societal-wide aggregation and analysis but also supports decision-making in various domains. Moreover, data must be securely stored in databases for record-keeping purposes, safeguarding it through reporting and recording as required.

The Vision of Identity Commons

The Identity Commons emerges as a powerful concept in this sophisticated ledger system. It has the potential to become a Worldwide Identification System, granting everyone access to data while maintaining personal control over their information. In this vision of the digital age, data is not merely a commodity; it is a potent tool for empowerment, collaboration, and informed decision-making.

Conclusion

In the digital age, our identities are intricately linked to our data. The Identity Commons ensures that individuals retain control over their digital selves, offering a path to navigate the complexities of the digital world with confidence and empowerment. As we move forward, let us embrace this vision of the Identity Commons—a world where data is a force for positive change and a tool to empower individuals and society.