View Message

Over the years there have been many conversations regarding compound names among the submitted name editors. The objective is to have reasonable limits for eligibility in the database.

---

We have decided that space-separated compound names are not eligible. The reason for this, as stated in the guidelines, is that: "there are too many potential combinations and their presence bloats the collection without adding significant value, since the two component names may be looked up separately." Additionally, I should note that it is very difficult to verify the existence of rare space-separated names, since it is usually not clear whether a person bears a true compound or a first name + middle name.

---

The guidelines apply to the user-submitted names, not the main collection, which is why some space-separated compounds are included in main. It is not an issue there because there's only one editor. When there are multiple editors who sometimes disagree, there need to be clear guidelines.

---

I agree that some of these names *should* be included, but the only way to do this is to change the guidelines. In the past we've never agreed on a good subjective measure for including some but not others. However, I'm definitely open to suggestions.