HTML to blame for porn

At least, that's the reasoning Johannes seems to use when he expresses doubt about the relevance of SAML to Web 2.0.

I got to say that I'm a sceptic on this. I don't think that there has been an existence proof for the successful combination of SAML and Web 2.0: putting control in the hands of the end user — the essence of Web 2.0 — is not typically compatible with the way SAML projects tend to end up.

The argument appears to be 'because SAML can be deployed in ways that don't directly/explicitly/visibly empower users, it can't be deployed otherwise'. Similiarly, because HTML can display porn, or violence, or politicians, it can't be used for more noble purposes.

Notwithstanding his doubt, Johannes signed up for the Liberty Alliance Open Source Identity Webinar and appears willing to have his SAML notions challenged.

Johannes also points out the irony in Liberty requiring Webinar attendees to create an account. A legitimate objection, and one for which steps are being taken (or at least being discussed). I expect Johannes will appreciate the extra irony in this being pointed out by someone who throws up a not insignificant barrier to anybody wishing to leave a comment on his blog.

Tags:

• SAML


• open source


• Web 2.0


• Liberty Alliance