Cannot Rename files & folders

Starting a few minutes ago, I cannot edit file or folder names with key strokes. I repaired permissions and restarted. No joy. Verify HD test results are OK.
Keyboard works fine in text and graphic aps (eg I am keying this message). Strangely, I can copy text from other sources (with cmd C or with menu/mouse) and paste it into file name using Mouse drag>Edit>Paste command. Paste with key command (Cmd V) does not edit highlighted filename text. Delete key does not delete highlighted filename text.
Related issue, Cmd I no longer opens a Get Info window. Mouse drag File>Get Info does open an Info window. Files and folders have read/write permission.
I tried the usual file name edit options:
1. Desktop icons: click/hold file name to enter text edit mode. text box activates. Key in new text. Keystrokes do not affect the text in the file name. Key cmd C,X,V do not affect highlighted text. Menu command for paste does
2. Column view in finder window (applies to files in any column): click/hold file name to enter text edit mode. Drag to highlight exist text. keystrokes do not affect file name text.
3. Select file and Get Info. Highlight file name. Keystrokes do not edit the text.
Any ideas?
-B
Message was edited by: Benson Shaw

try resetting your finder preferences. delete the file homedirectory/library/preferences/com.apple.finder.plist. then control-option-click on Finder in the dock and choose "relaunch".

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