They're part of what helps make us feel like we belong, a rather intangible bit of sticky paste that kept this (formerly?) close-knit community together.

I have precisely the opposite opinion.

When you're in a room with many close friends, it should not be necessary to wear name tags which denote an arbitrary and meaningless caste ranking. To do so is to add an additional distraction to what should otherwise be a normal relationship. It opens the opportunity for jealousy or envy in some people, or at the very least, hurt feelings.