To Infinity, and Beyond -- The Far Future of Badges

What does the future hold for badges? That's hard to say, since most technological innovations are hard to spot in advance: after all, how many futurists of a century ago predicted the computer revolution? However, we can make some logical guesses. Most likely, the future of identification will elaborate on the unique features of the human body that we've already discussed. As medical testing becomes faster and cheaper, it may become simple to identify a person down to the DNA level in seconds, just by taking a cell or two or by using non-invasive means, such as certain lasers, to read one's genetic code. If physical badges remain in vogue, we may someday see tiny implanted badges or transponders -- like those that many dogs already carry between their shoulder-blades -- that make identification and access to authorized areas as simple as walking up to a door. There's always the possibility, considering the way that technology is evolving, that these mini-badges might be as small as a few molecules, and as easy to install as a pinprick. And if someone wants to be clever, why not a simple tattoo drawn with the proper reflective inks or microscopic nano-devices?

As always, we'll just have to wait and see what the future holds. Can't wait to get there, can you?

The End :: Back to Index