Views expressed on this podcast are our own and do not reflect any entity. We may use affiliate links and receive commission, and any advertisements or sponsorships will be clearly stated.
Our content is not professional advice - always consult with a professional. All podcast content is owned by, unauthorized use is prohibited. Information shared is accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time of recording; we are not responsible for any errors or future inaccuracies.
News
Casio Dropping Free NFTs to 'Co-Create' Virtual G-Shock Watches
Watch-and-Earn Platform Myco Reveals Community Film Funding Program
Two new blockchain phones aim to mobilize Web3
CubeOasis, the first AR to Earn (A2E) virtual world platform, is proud to announce the launch of their new metaverse space for both work and play.
Visa to Settle Merchant Crypto Payments in USDC Over Solana
Bicycle Announces Limited-Edition Decks Featuring Bored Apes Following Its Purchase of #1227 Bored Ape NFT
Circle deploys USDC on Layer 2 networks OP Mainnet and Base
HAKUHODO KEY3, Mazda, and Mitsubishi Estate collaborate to launch web3 hackathon
International Dealers Continue to Expand in Seoul, Casting a Vote of Confidence in South Korea Despite a Market Correction
MetaMask scammers take over government websites to target crypto investors
OpenAI Plugs ChatGPT Into Canva to Sharpen Its Competitive Edge in AI
WISeKey Empowers Luxury Brands with Advanced NFT Technology to Digitally Authenticate and Represent Unique Products
Rock the Block(chain): NFTs in Food and Beverage
Chipmaker NXP confirms data breach involving customers’ information
Zoom rebrands existing — and intros new — generative AI features
The US can’t kill crypto: Real regulations are coming
New AI-generated COVID drug enters Phase I clinical trials: ‘Effective against all variants’
VirtualStreet.Art: The Pioneering Street Art NFT Marketplace on Tezos, Created by La Poste Groupe
Web3 and the Crossroads of Centralization
The promise of Web3 – a decentralized and democratized internet, where power returns to individual users and away from centralized entities – has stirred up a global tech revolution. The excitement and potential surrounding blockchain, smart contracts, and decentralized apps are palpable. Yet, as with any technological movement, challenges abound, particularly when it comes to the intersection of Web3 principles with the interests of big business.
The Allure of Web3
The ideals of Web3 are deeply rooted in a vision of an internet where every participant has an equal stake. It's a response to the Web2 era, where a few tech behemoths have a disproportionate amount of control over data, platforms, and monetization. Web3 shifts this dynamic, allowing for:
Decentralized ownership: With token-based ecosystems, users can have true ownership of digital assets and platforms.
Data sovereignty: Individuals control and monetize their own data, challenging the current model where data is harvested and sold without direct compensation to the user.
Decentralized applications (dApps): These are not controlled by a single entity, but rather operate on blockchain networks, ensuring transparency and trust.
The Entry of Big Business
It's not surprising that the corporate world is taking a keen interest in Web3. Its potential profitability and future dominance make it an essential frontier for businesses. However, this interest comes at a potential cost:
Dilution of Ideals: As corporations with deep pockets enter the space, there's a risk they could co-opt and dilute the decentralization ideals, leading to a quasi-centralized model.
Narrative Control: Big businesses have the resources to set and steer narratives. When combined with influential figures in the Web3 space, this could lead to a climate of uncertainty, and even fear, making individuals more passive consumers rather than empowered creators.
Striking a Balance
So, how do we safeguard the principles of Web3 while also allowing for innovation and collaboration with the broader business ecosystem?
Education: Empower individuals with knowledge. The more they understand the Web3 vision, the better equipped they'll be to make informed decisions about which platforms and projects align with decentralized ideals.
Community Vigilance: The essence of decentralization is the community. Vigilant communities can hold businesses accountable, ensuring they remain transparent and true to the principles of Web3.
Collaborative Frameworks: Encourage partnerships between Web3 pioneers and traditional businesses, but with clear guidelines that prioritize decentralization. Such collaborations could bring the best of both worlds.
Decentralized Governance: Implement governance models where decision-making powers are spread across the community, not just with a select few.
Web3's promise is significant, but it's at a critical juncture. The entry of big business isn't inherently bad – it can bring resources, expertise, and mainstream adoption. However, the community must remain vigilant, ensuring that the foundational principles of Web3 aren't compromised. By prioritizing education, fostering community-led governance, and championing true decentralization, Web3 can achieve its revolutionary potential.
Why Do We Root for the Downfall of Others?
The Bored Ape Yacht Club Phenomenon as a Case Study
In the ever-evolving world of digital art and culture, few phenomena have captured the zeitgeist quite like the Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC). A collection of hand-drawn, NFT-based cartoon apes, BAYC has attracted enthusiasts willing to spend vast amounts of money to own these digital tokens. As with many trends that rise meteorically, there is a parallel sentiment that wishes for its decline. The sentiment "Apes deserve to go to 0" is emblematic of this. But why do we, as observers or even participants in a trend, sometimes root for its failure?
The Tall Poppy Syndrome
This term originates from Australia but resonates universally. The idea is that individuals who stand out due to achievements. Just as tall poppies might be cut down to size, successful endeavors or people are sometimes targeted for their success. The meteoric rise of BAYC could easily make it a target for such sentiments.
Desire for Market Validation
In any financial market, there are believers and skeptics. Those who missed out on a trend or who bet against it (either ideologically or financially) might wish for its decline as validation of their skepticism.
Cultural Backlash
When something becomes mainstream, it often faces a cultural backlash from those who feel it has become too commercial, lost its original spirit, or simply become too ubiquitous. Such a backlash might manifest in sentiments hoping for its decline.
Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)
Ironically, some who wish for a trend's end might secretly desire to be a part of it. By hoping for its decline, they might be voicing a hidden FOMO, wishing for a reset so they can be part of the "next big thing" from its inception.
Inherent Volatility of Trends
The nature of trends is cyclical. What's in vogue today might not be tomorrow. Recognizing this, some individuals might anticipate or even wish for the end of a trend as a natural progression of things.
Critique of Speculative Bubbles
For many, the NFT space and phenomena like BAYC are indicative of speculative bubbles, reminiscent of the Tulip Mania or the Dot-Com bubble. Those wary of speculative behavior might hope for a crash as a corrective measure for what they perceive as market irrationality.
The desire to see the downfall of successful entities, be it BAYC or any other cultural phenomenon, is complex and multifaceted. Rooted in psychology, market dynamics, and cultural shifts, this sentiment is a testament to the intricate ways in which human beings interact with, and react to, success. As with all things, it's essential to approach trends with a balanced perspective, understanding the human emotions at play while navigating the ever-changing cultural landscape.
Tuesday, September 5, 2023
Embrace Curiosity, Cultivate Inner Resilience, and Spread Empathy
I embrace curiosity, cultivate inner resilience, and spread empathy.
Number Science: Numerology - 2 (Harmony, Cooperation, Intuition)
On this Tuesday, September 5, 2023, adopt an alpha mindset that encourages you to embrace curiosity, cultivate inner resilience, and spread empathy. Embrace your curiosity, inviting new knowledge and experiences into your day. Cultivate inner resilience by connecting with your inner strength and determination. Spread empathy and understanding to those around you, creating a compassionate and supportive environment.
The numerology of 2 signifies harmony, cooperation, and intuition. Use this energy to foster positive connections and trust your instincts in decision-making.
With this alpha mindset, mantra, and the influence of numerology, you can approach Tuesday, September 5, 2023, with a sense of exploration, inner empowerment, and compassionate interactions, making it a day of growth, resilience, and meaningful connections with others.
Believing Change is Possible is the First Step
In life, we are constantly bombarded with challenges, both big and small, that test our resilience, our adaptability, and our faith in ourselves. From trying to lose weight to striving for a promotion at work, our belief systems often play a crucial role in determining whether we will succeed or fail. Among the many factors that influence success, the belief that change is possible stands out as the foundational starting point. Without this belief, our efforts are often half-hearted, or we may not even begin at all.
The Power of Belief
The human mind is an incredibly powerful tool. What we believe influences our actions, our reactions, and the decisions we make. Research has consistently shown that a person's beliefs about their own capabilities can either facilitate or inhibit their progress. Those with a strong belief in their ability to change or achieve are more likely to persevere in the face of challenges and to put in the effort needed to succeed.
The Self-Fulfilling Prophecy
If you believe you can't change, this belief can become a self-fulfilling prophecy. By doubting our capabilities, we may avoid opportunities, give up easily when faced with obstacles, or not put in the necessary effort. On the other hand, if you believe you can change and grow, you're more likely to take risks, seek out opportunities, and persist in the face of adversity.
The Role of Growth Mindset
Dr. Carol Dweck's research on fixed vs. growth mindsets offers profound insights into the importance of beliefs. Individuals with a fixed mindset believe that their qualities and abilities are static and cannot be changed. Those with a growth mindset, on the other hand, believe that abilities and intelligence can be developed over time. By adopting a growth mindset, we open ourselves up to the possibility of change and improvement, even in areas where we previously felt stuck.
Overcoming Doubt
While believing in change is essential, it's also natural to have doubts. However, the key is not to let these doubts dictate our actions. Techniques like positive self-talk, visualizing success, and surrounding oneself with supportive individuals can help foster and maintain a belief in personal change.
Taking Action
Belief in change is the first step, but it must be followed by action. This means setting clear goals, creating a plan, and taking the necessary steps towards achieving those goals. Every small success along the way further strengthens the belief that change is not only possible but also within reach.
Believing in the possibility of change is the cornerstone of personal growth and development. It sets the stage for all the actions and decisions that follow. By embracing a belief in our own ability to change, we empower ourselves to take control of our destinies and shape our futures in meaningful ways. Whether it's a personal habit we want to break or a new skill we want to acquire, it all begins with the belief that change, growth, and improvement are possible.
Spotlight
CRYPT CRâ–³YON ð“‚€
Amazing artist and community. In my opinions one of best founders in all of NFT industry. I am proud to put the spotlight on this project and artist.
Thank you to all that read and keep up with us. We appreciate you very much and wish you a wonderful journey.
Share this post