This is a dvar torah I wrote a number of years ago. I’ll post it here and now, due to its connection to the discussion at hand (It was originally written for Parshas Ki Teitzei):
One of the exciting aspects of having a child is choosing a name. Interestingly, customs regarding names vary between different sects of Jews. An obvious distinction exists between Ashkanazi and Sefardi families. Ashkanazim traditionally name their children after people who have passed on. It is considered an honor to the deceased to have a descendant named after them. Sefardim, however, name their children after a living person. To name a son after a living grandfather is considered a great honor among Sefardim, and yet, is a tremendous insult in an Ashkanazi family.
A contradiction seems to appear in the writings of Rebbi Yehuda HaChasid. In one place he explains that superstition only has power if you give it power. Immediately following that comment, he writes that a longstanding custom exists among the gentiles to name a son after the father with which there is nothing wrong. However, Jews should be careful not to do so (seemingly regardless of whether or not one is superstitious). The commentators explain that really there is no contradiction. Rebbi Yehuda HaChasid is saying that if you do not believe there will be an Ayin Hara, an evil eye, then name your child after whomever you want. However, do not name your child after yourself, because your lack of belief in the superstition will not afford you protection.