Who owns a name?

The Internet will certainly be affecting this years presidential election. Technology allows anyone to post pretty much whatever they want out on the web for all to see. This is a good thing as far as exchanging ideas and being able to express one's self, however, it does allow for misinformation. It also brings up the question of who has the right to use a particular domain name or blog.

Barack Obama was able to gain control of a blog started by a supporter. This blogger was not compensated for his hard work. It comes down to the question of who owns the name "Barack Obama." I can understand how and way Obama was able to take over this blog. It is his name and is for the benefit of his campaign. However, since someone else was working on their own, using his name, to further his campaign, it seems a little wrong to not compensate this person.

Anyone can purchase a domain name. Even if it is a famous person's name, a candidate, etc. Is it fair that anyone can buy your name in the hope of making money, getting publicity, etc. from someone else's identity? I happen to have the same name as someone who used to be famous. She is more infamous to most people who remember her. I have to ask myself, who owns my name? Does she, or do I? In fact, my name is real, I was named it by my parents without meaning any connection to this ex-star, she took my family's last name long before I was born.

It is a difficult subject to approach. I think it does make a difference if a name belongs to a present star or candidate. They should be the only ones to use their names. Others would still be able to post their opinions, but I think it would be less confusing for many people if others would not be able to call their websites or blogs, etc, after these famous names. This would be an impossible task, to be sure.

I think the present state of affairs will strongly be affected by the use of a candidate's name by anyone. It opens up the chance that misinformation will be posted and believed to be real. Especially if someone thinks a representative of, or the actual person (ex. Barack Obama) posted the information. Many people don't use critical thinking when then read. They think if it is in writing, anywhere, it must be true. This will definitely affect the election and how people will feel and vote for the candidates.