There is nothing authoritarian about having a rule that requires the person in front of you is in fact a student at the university.

I work in a high school where the children whine the same way you are Jim. It's a really immature attitude. I was at the U for 7 years, and I ALWAYS had my student ID. I carry it with my drivers license. It is what allowed me entry to computer labs, allowed me to photocopy at the libraries, and lots more. Many employers nowadays require employees to wear identification badges, which often double as security cards to gain entry into their work areas.

So why exactly are you whining that students shouldn't have to have their IDs? It is just so bloody childish. I listen to the sorts of excuses (yes, excuses, offered by immature, childish COLLEGE AGED STUDENTS) every day as to why the children think they are too special and too precious to follow the rules. You sound just like them Jim, which surprises me. I thought you were much more mature than this.