In a recent interview, Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin advised against basing political support solely on a candidate’s pro-crypto views. He emphasized the importance of broader values such as individual freedoms and technological advancement, warning that a narrow focus on cryptocurrency could undermine the principles that inspired the industry’s movement.
Buterin highlighted that supporting politicians solely for their pro-crypto positions is shortsighted, as political views can change over time. To assess a candidate’s genuine commitment to crypto, he suggests looking into their historical stance on related issues such as encrypted messaging. This, he argues, offers insight into their likely future positions on technology and freedom.
The industry, according to Buterin, is about more than just cryptocurrency and blockchains. Its roots lie in the cypherpunk ethos of the early 2000s, advocating for free and open technology to protect individual freedoms. Bitcoin, as an extension of the cypherpunk spirit, provided decentralized means of financial transactions. However, the emphasis on freedom of payment as central to all other freedoms came later.
Buterin stressed that technological freedoms go beyond cryptocurrency, highlighting the importance of freedom and privacy of communication, encrypted messaging, pseudonymity, and zero-knowledge proofs. He also pointed out the significance of privacy-friendly digital identity, noting that while blockchain applications can help, traditional cryptographic methods are often more practical.
As AI interactions deepen, Buterin emphasized the growing importance of protecting thoughts from centralized AI companies and advocated for high-quality access to information through social technologies that promote informed opinions in adversarial environments. He criticized current pro-crypto initiatives for neglecting these broader freedoms, pointing out that platforms like StandWithCrypto focus exclusively on cryptocurrency-related legislation without addressing other crucial freedoms related to cryptography and technology.
In conclusion, Vitalik Buterin’s message is clear: the crypto industry should not lose sight of its core values in the pursuit of political support. By considering a candidate’s history and commitment to broader freedoms and technological advancement, the community can ensure that their political support aligns with the principles that inspired the crypto industry’s movement. It is essential to look beyond just a candidate’s pro-crypto stance and scrutinize their overall values and vision for technology and the economy before offering political support.
