Legal:
* Real people's names: Using someone's real name in your book without their permission is generally not recommended. It could potentially lead to legal trouble, especially if you portray them in a negative or defamatory light.
* Public figures: Using the names of public figures, like politicians or celebrities, is generally considered fair game, as they've voluntarily put themselves in the public eye. However, you should still be careful about portraying them in a way that could be considered false or harmful to their reputation.
* Fictional characters: You have complete freedom to use any names you want for your fictional characters. There are no copyright issues with using names that are not already trademarked.
Ethical:
* Privacy: Even if you can legally use someone's name, it's important to consider their privacy. If you're writing about real people, think about how they might feel about being included in your story.
* Accuracy: If you're using a real person's name, it's crucial to ensure that any information you present about them is accurate.
* Reputation: Be mindful of how your portrayal of someone might affect their reputation.
Recommendations:
* Change names: If you're writing about real people, the simplest and safest option is to change their names. This avoids potential legal issues and respects their privacy.
* Obtain consent: If you must use someone's real name, it's wise to get their permission beforehand.
* Use pseudonyms: You can also use a pseudonym for a real person if you're writing about them without their permission. However, be clear that this is a pseudonym and not their real name.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to use someone's name in your book is up to you. But it's important to weigh the legal and ethical implications carefully.