[AccessD] Primary Key Best Practices

Susan,

<<You have the original model and you have what is currently in
practice. If the relational model, as originally devised, can't change, then
you're right. But, in practice, it absolutely has changed. >>

  Well the model hasn't changed that I'm aware of, but your right, it has
changed in practice.

Jim. 

-----Original Message-----
From: accessd-bounces at databaseadvisors.com
[mailto:accessd-bounces at databaseadvisors.com] On Behalf Of Susan Harkins
Sent: Wednesday, July 25, 2007 11:18 AM
To: 'Access Developers discussion and problem solving'
Subject: Re: [AccessD] Primary Key Best Practices

 
  Surrogates only work in computer systems because we have systems that are
reliable.  If I gave you pen and paper and had you keep track of data using
the relational model, you'd be in a pretty big mess fairly quick if you used
surrogate keys.

=======If we didn't have reliable systems, we wouldn't be using relational
databases. 

  I don't object to the use of surrogate keys, but what I do object to is
the apples and oranges approach you use to claim what a PK is and surrogate
keys fit in the relational model.  Surrogate keys are nothing more then
pointers.  To call them a PK in regards to the relational model is simply
incorrect.

=======You have the original model and you have what is currently in
practice. If the relational model, as originally devised, can't change, then
you're right. But, in practice, it absolutely has changed. 

Susan H 

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