Let’s start with an article I read a few days ago titled “The Difference Between the AI Craze and the Internet Craze According to the Founders of a16z”:
“From a technological standpoint, Marc Andreessen believes that the internet is a network, while AI is more like a computer.
The internet is fundamentally a network that connects many existing computers and facilitates the creation of new computers. It is driven by network effects, where the value of the network increases as more people join and encourages the construction of new computers to connect to the internet.
On the other hand, AI, especially large language models, is a new type of computer. It is a probabilistic, neural network-based computer that is significantly different from traditional von Neumann computers (deterministic computers).
The development of AI is more akin to the era of microprocessors or mainframes. It processes data, learns from it, and generates output. It is an information processing system, rather than a network.”
Naturally, this got me thinking: from a technological standpoint, is crypto more like a network or a computer?
While Ethereum once had the dream of being a “world computer,” public blockchains do indeed play a unique role as a type of computer. For example, they prioritize decentralization over efficiency, which is a path that traditional computers have not explored. However, I still believe that crypto is more like a network for several reasons:
The core value of crypto is a value transfer network. To achieve this core value, it requires a different type of computer architecture. The computer attributes of crypto are tools, while network attributes are the goal.
The network effects of crypto are incredibly strong. The first-mover advantage and lock-in effects are evident, making it difficult for newcomers to surpass even if they have technological superiority.
Looking at it from a different perspective, an internet pioneer once told me that he believes crypto is more software-oriented, just like the internet, while AI is more hardware-oriented, like smartphones. When revolutionary changes occur in the former, people often don’t realize it until some time has passed, perhaps only when the network is large enough to demonstrate its true power. The latter, however, is different. Hardware has a stronger tangible presence, and the differences between Chatgpt and iPhone are immediately apparent.
Recommended Articles:
Crypto Crossroads: Moral Responsibility, Cypherpunk Movement, and Institutions
https://zkfold.ing/crypto-crossroads
@Guo Yu: What principles does the Cypherpunk Manifesto advocate? What are the moral responsibilities of cryptographers? What is the relationship between cryptography, cryptocurrency, and individual freedom? Here’s an excerpt:
“… However, in recent years, the values that once supported the development of cryptocurrencies seem to have been overshadowed by a focus on economic interests. Although the rise of cryptocurrencies initially aligned with the ideals of decentralization and financial autonomy, it is increasingly dominated by speculative interests and profit motives. This shift towards monetization may damage the moral foundation of cryptography and divert attention from its potential to protect privacy and empower individuals.”
E10: Say love in secrets
https://open.spotify.com/episode/65bm7TCTyoEH3D6QDLpqkg
@Zeng Mi: How can you design a reasonable inheritance plan for your Bitcoin? This podcast episode explains it clearly.
@Jeffrey Hu: The inheritance of cryptographic assets can be considered an important follow-up topic to self-custody, and perhaps equally important. This latest podcast episode by Yi Congzhe shares thoughts and research on Bitcoin inheritance, including concepts, plans, security practices, and more.
Nostr Wallet Connect: A Bitcoin Application Collaboration Layer
https://www.btcstudy.org/2024/06/21/nostr-wallet-connect-a-bitcoin-application-collaboration-layer/
@Ajian: NWC is an implementation of the Nostr protocol that has been proposed for quite some time. In principle, it involves combining a Nostr client with a Lightning node, allowing control of the Lightning node by sending messages to the Nostr client. This enables initiating payments and generating invoices. Specifically, this solves a significant problem of how to remotely control a Lightning node deployed in a home network while being away. Before Nostr, the available options either suffered from long network delays or required obtaining an externally accessible IP address. Currently, there are two implementations of NWC, one of which can be combined with LND. However, if you have some programming knowledge, you can actually implement the same functionality as NWC in a non-standard way.
In a broader sense, I have always believed that Bitcoin, Lightning, and Nostr all provide essential tools for personal network survival. With them, all the necessary tools for establishing a personal homepage are available. Nostr provides both a showcase page and content, as well as the ability to automate the Lightning port; your Lightning network node, under your control. All you need are these trust-minimized protocols.
How to build the safest (and dumbest) Optimium
https://scalability.guide/posts/the_safest_optimium/
@Zhang Zhuo: This article discusses many assumptions about layer 2 security. It’s suitable for those who enjoy delving deep into problems and seeking thorough understanding.
INFLUENCE
https://www.influenceth.io
@Kong Dao: So far, this is the most complex and closest to a “masterpiece” in the world of blockchain games. It features a complete player-driven economic system, from raw materials to spaceships production. The game has just launched on the mainnet, and while it has a slightly high learning curve, I still recommend giving it a try.
