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Saying Things about Literals

OK, what do you call a node/entity (what's it's Class name) that just represents a datatype, e.g. a string, so that you can make statements about strings. "datatype reifier" seems less than ideal because reification is overloaded already and not obvious anyhow.

A node or entity in RDF that represents a datatype (e.g., a string) and allows you to make statements about that datatype is typically referred to as a "value resource" or "literal proxy". This kind of node serves as an intermediary resource that stands in for the literal so that additional properties can be attached to it. Since "reifier" is indeed a loaded term in RDF, these alternatives focus more on the role of representing a value as a resource in its own right.

Here are some naming options you might consider:

1. Literal Proxy:

  • Description: A class that represents a proxy for a literal value, allowing the literal to be treated as a resource to which you can attach properties.
  • Why?: This term emphasizes the idea that the literal is being "proxied" by a resource, making it clear that the value is being represented indirectly.
  • Example: You could define a LiteralProxy class that wraps strings, numbers, or other literals, allowing you to make statements about them.

2. Value Resource:

  • Description: A resource that stands in place of a literal value and allows statements to be made about the value.
  • Why?: "Value resource" suggests that the node is a resource representing a specific value (literal), which is a natural extension of how RDF resources work.
  • Example: You could create instances of ValueResource to represent strings, numbers, or other literals that you want to describe in greater detail.

3. Data Entity:

  • Description: A class that represents a structured data entity, which allows literals to be treated as first-class citizens in the RDF graph.
  • Why?: "Data entity" focuses on the idea that the literal is treated as a full-fledged entity in the graph, making it clear that it's not a raw literal but a representational object.
  • Example: DataEntity could be used for strings or numbers where additional metadata or properties are needed.

4. Value Node:

  • Description: A node in the RDF graph that represents a literal value.
  • Why?: This term captures the idea that the node is standing in for a literal, emphasizing its role as a point in the graph that connects the literal to other statements.
  • Example: A ValueNode class could allow you to make additional statements about specific string literals, such as their language or context.

5. Literal Resource:

  • Description: A class that represents a literal value as a resource, enabling further properties to be attached to it.
  • Why?: This term directly conveys that the literal is being represented as a resource, emphasizing its RDF role as something that can be linked to other entities.
  • Example: LiteralResource could allow a string or number to be the subject of additional properties like source or format.

6. ValueWrapper:

  • Description: A wrapper class for values (literals), enabling them to be treated as full resources.
  • Why?: "Wrapper" emphasizes that the node is encapsulating a literal, making it suitable for further description.
  • Example: ValueWrapper instances could be used for numbers or strings when you need to describe their properties.

Example Use Case:

If you wanted to describe a specific string (e.g., "Hello, world!") and add properties to it, you might define a class LiteralProxy like this:

_:string1 a :LiteralProxy ;
          :hasValue "Hello, world!" ;
          :language "en" ;
          :source "Generated by User" .

In this case, _:string1 is an instance of LiteralProxy (or whichever term you prefer), and the actual string "Hello, world!" is attached as a property (:hasValue), along with other descriptive properties.

Conclusion:

While "datatype reifier" might seem technically correct, it's not ideal due to the baggage around "reification" in RDF. Terms like Literal Proxy, Value Resource, or Literal Resource are cleaner, more intuitive alternatives that clearly communicate the idea of representing literals as resources for further description.

which do you like best? Literal Proxy might be my favorite

I think Literal Proxy is a great choice! It's clear, intuitive, and communicates exactly what the node is doing—standing in for a literal in a way that allows you to make statements about it. It avoids the complexities and connotations of "reification" while emphasizing the role of the proxy as an intermediary resource. It strikes a balance between technical accuracy and ease of understanding. Let me know if you need any further refinements!

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