What is the importance of "names" in the novel, Workin’ for Peanuts?

In the novel, names and nicknames are used to show the difference between stereotypes and reality. All of Jeff's group of friends, including himself, have nicknames. Even the baseball team is known only as "The Beautiful Losers." In turn, Jeff uses nicknames to identify Melissa's friends. At the end of the novel, however, Jeff rejects his own nickname, Philosopher, after he realizes that there is more to an individual than a name.