cryptojournalist
Snowden: Venture Capital Threatens Blockchain Independence
At a recent conference in Bangkok, Edward Snowden, a well-known privacy advocate, spoke passionately about the need for decentralization in blockchain. Using Solana as an example, Snowden argued that the influence of venture capital (VC) firms on blockchain projects can stifle their independence. With so much backing from VCs, he said Solana was “born in prison,” suggesting that investor control limits its ability to truly operate freely. While Snowden acknowledged Solana’s rapid growth, he cautioned that too much power given to investors could prevent the platform from being genuinely decentralized.
Decentralization as a Way to Resist AI Surveillance
Snowden also highlighted how decentralization could be a powerful tool against the rise of AI-driven surveillance. He warned that AI gives governments and corporations the ability to monitor and analyze massive amounts of personal data in real-time, flagging individuals as “anomalous” based on appearance or behavior. Snowden argued that decentralizing control over technology is essential to protect individual privacy from constant tracking and scrutiny.
Venture Capital’s Grip on “Decentralized” Networks
Using a recent Uniswap vote as an example, Snowden pointed out how major investors can still control supposedly decentralized networks. The venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz (a16z) recently used its large share of tokens to block a proposal that had majority support from other stakeholders. This, Snowden argued, shows how big investors can influence decisions, even in decentralized projects, undermining their independence and community control.
The Power of Open-Source Tools
Snowden encouraged people to use open-source tools, which make technology more accessible and transparent. He believes that open-source models empower individuals to understand and use technology directly, without needing to rely on big companies or centralized platforms. Snowden called open-source technology “incredibly empowering” and urged listeners to adopt these tools as a way to maintain personal control and freedom in a world that’s increasingly centralized.
