Vitalik Buterin Advocates for a 'Sovereign Web' to Challenge Big Tech Dominance

Vitalik Buterin Champions a 'Sovereign Web' Over Big Tech

Vitalik Buterin, Ethereum's co-founder, is pushing for digital innovations that enhance user autonomy and privacy.

In a recent statement on social media platform X, Buterin emphasized the need for a 'sovereign web' to shield users from corporate data exploitation and psychological manipulation.

Critique of the Current Internet Landscape

Buterin criticized the current internet ecosystem, which he termed 'corposlop,' for its focus on profit over user empowerment. He pointed out the prevalence of homogeneous platforms that prioritize engagement metrics over genuine value, often using manipulative algorithms.

He highlighted issues such as excessive data collection and 'walled gardens' that restrict interoperability and charge high fees, creating an illusion of service while disempowering users.

A New Vision for Digital Sovereignty

Buterin proposed a redefined digital sovereignty, moving beyond the early 2000s focus on evading government censorship to include psychological independence. He argued for cryptographic tools to protect individuals from corporate exploitation of attention and resources.

He acknowledged the foresight of Bitcoin maximalists in maintaining Bitcoin's 'sovereignty' by resisting corporatized financial applications.

Roadmap to a Sovereign Web

Buterin outlined a roadmap for developers to create privacy-focused, local-first applications that minimize reliance on third-party intermediaries. He also advocated for financial tools that enable sustainable wealth growth, explicitly opposing platforms that encourage high-risk speculation.

He concluded with a call for open AI systems that enhance human-machine collaboration, rather than promoting user passivity.