I would not advocate that it is the only method of identification. I think we need to add multiple reliable id methods to make things easier and more secure. People focus on just govt photo ID and I think that we can get better acceptance by giving more options.
Actually they are very important. It prevents a Tyrannical government from getting or creating a list of people who are or potentially are against any measure they attempt to pass or push through or force onto the population.
It also prevents groups extreme alt-left or right groups from targeting individuals based on who they voted for. Even private information about a person leaks from the government from time to time.
