Behavioural Biometrics and Human Identity

Abstract

In this chapter we will review the latest developments in biometrics based on behavioural traits and spatio-temporal fusion of sensory information of the human body. We deal with the societal impact of conceptualizing and of using particular biometric systems, and claim that each biometric scenario comes with its own reality-changing implications. We also claim that technological developments in security neglect the human aspect and in their attempt to produce solutions with quantifiable measures of success they overlook non-quantifiable, yet essential ingredients of everyday existence, thereby creating disembodied, ephemeral scenarios and use-cases. We look at what is missing from the presently dominant, ‘clean’ paradigm, and project the possible results of continuing along this trajectory. We seek alternatives, we explore how biometric technology can be used for an ambient lifestyle, and we draw attention to the concerns that are buried under the worn-out discourse of a positivist approach.