In contrast, consider the emergence of "false data syndrome," deceptive identification method derived from numbers rather than more recognizable human traits. Simson Garfinkel couples this idea with concepts like "data shadow" and "datasphere" in Database Nation, offering unappealing scenario of how we have overlooked privacy with the advent of advanced technology. According to Garfinkel, "technology is not privacy neutral." This leaves us with only two choices: 1) allow our personal data to rest in the public domain or 2) become hermits (no credit cards, video midnight outing no - you get the point). Garfinkel's thoroughly researched and rich sample text explores the history of identification procedures, computerized ID system, how and where data is collected, tracked, and stored, and the laws that protect privacy. This is not the United States government who controls or manages the majority of this data but rather faceless company who trade your purchasing habits, social security numbers and other personal information just like any other hot commodities. There's a heck of a lot of data to digest about data here and just a little humor to offset the weight of Garfinkel's projections. In many information-horrific situations, Garfinkel explores a variety of data theft and the implications for the future of the larger, durable database. In a case study involving an insurance claim form, he explains how a short paragraph to give "blanket authorization" for all (not just medical) personal records to insurance companies. Choices we have, however, is to build a world in which sensitive data is respected and kept private - and the book offers clever, "turn-the-table" solution, shows that citizens, governments and companies work together to develop a system ID legislation is weak and heavier penalties for identification theft.