In many ways, yes — society often measures our lives through documents. Not because the paper itself matters, but because of what it represents.
Here’s why these “pieces of paper” have so much power:
They Make Life Work ProperlyBirth certificates, IDs, marriage certificates, property documents, degrees, and wills all help the world stay organised. Without them, it’s hard to access services, prove who you are, or protect your rights.
They Prove Important ThingsDocuments are used to confirm identity, qualifications, and ownership. In a busy, complicated world, we need trusted proof.
They Open (or Close) DoorsA qualification can mean a better job. Financial documents can affect whether you get a loan or buy a home. Having the “right papers” can create opportunities—while missing them can hold people back.
They Make Big Systems WorkGovernments and companies use documents to process information quickly and fairly. It’s not perfect, but it helps manage millions of people and transactions.
They Hold MeaningSome documents are symbols:
A diploma represents years of hard work.A marriage certificate marks a major life commitment.A will protects your loved ones.
Even though these are just pieces of paper, they carry emotional and practical weight.
But It’s Not a Perfect System
Relying so heavily on documents can unfairly disadvantage people who don’t have access to them. It can also create unnecessary red tape and barriers.
The goal should be a society where documents support people—not define their worth.
