Sign Up on MEXCBitcoin Consensus Rules Questioned by Ripple CTO
Highlights
- Ripple CTO questions if hash power solely defines Bitcoin, challenging conventional beliefs.
- The Nakamoto consensus relies on the longest chain rule, where most computing effort validates blockchain.
- Schwartz's intervention prompts reflection on user autonomy and network governance in the Bitcoin ecosystem.
David Schwartz, the Chief Technology Officer of Ripple, has raised a point that has drawn attention to the process of centralizing the Bitcoin (BTC) hash power. With his intervention, Schwartz challenges the conventional wisdom that it is the majority of hash power that determines who gets to control the name “Bitcoin.” Responding to tweets, he not only questions the understanding but goes on to raise a fresh question, the one about the authority to define what is popularly known as Bitcoin.
Ripple CTO questioned whether a rational user would blindly accept whatever is called BTC, regardless of its qualities, honesty, or integrity. Schwartz emphasized the importance of distinguishing between what is labeled as Bitcoin and what users actually desire, suggesting that the former does not necessarily align with the latter’s preferences.
Role of Hash Power in Bitcoin Consensus
Hash power, the computational power used for mining and confirming transactions on the Bitcoin network, has long been seen as a key factor responsible for consensus. The Nakamoto consensus, the basis of the BTC network, uses the longest chain rule, which says that the chain with the most computing time is the legitimate one. This principle has served the integrity and security of the BTC network since day one.
Schwartz’s criticism raises the question of the level to which hash power actually authorizes the building of the Bitcoin identity. He gives an example of the Bitcoin Cash hard fork from 2017, where he claims that rational users did not immediately choose the team that claimed to retain the “Bitcoin” name after the fork. This goes against the idea that the majority of hash power dominantly defines the true essence of Bitcoin.
Examining Rational User Behavior in BTC Ecosystem
Schwartz’s intrusion into this type of operation gives rise to a reevaluation of user behavior within the BTC system. Providing an argument that adherents of Bitcoin could simply have labeled it by sticking “Bitcoin” without being able to be sure whether users blindly hold that on just the mere fact that those did not have any underlying principle or quality, not only has he made the case of the network governance, and also fellow users called for the reconsidering. Through this talk, it is shown that the more complex aspects of choice influence the Selection of Bitcoins and resistance to the network.
Read Also: Hong Kong’s Securities Association Tips Authorities On Crypto Self-Regulation
- Cathie Wood’s Ark Invest Backs Nasdaq-Listed Solmate To Launch $300M Solana Treasury
- First U.S. Spot Dogecoin and XRP ETFs Launch as REX-Osprey Debuts DOJE and XRPR
- Analyst Calls $6 XRP Target for November Amid Ripple CEO’s White House Stockpile Hint
- Ethereum Faces Selloff Risks As Whales’ Unrealized Profit Hits 2021 Highs
- Expert Predicts 138% Shiba Inu Rally as SHIB Futures Listing Opens Spot ETF Path
- Cardano Price Stays Above Ichimoku Cloud as Grayscale ADA ETF Approval Nears
- HBAR Price Prediction as SEC Approves Generic ETF Framework – Analyst Targets $1.80
- Toshi Coin Gains 57% in One Day: What’s Driving the Sudden Upside?
- Shiba Inu Price Set to Soar as Exchange Reserves Dive Amid SHIB ETF Chatter
- Pepe Coin Price Prediction as Whale Moves $25M From Robinhood- Is a Breakout to $0.00002 Next?
- XRP Price Prediction as Market Longs Hit 78% amid VivoPower Treasury Expansion Launch — Is $4 Next?
Why Trust CoinGape
CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights Read more…to our readers. Our journal analysts bring years of experience in market analysis and blockchain technology to ensure factual accuracy and balanced reporting. By following our Editorial Policy, our writers verify every source, fact-check each story, rely on reputable sources, and attribute quotes and media correctly. We also follow a rigorous Review Methodology when evaluating exchanges and tools. From emerging blockchain projects and coin launches to industry events and technical developments, we cover all facets of the digital asset space with unwavering commitment to timely, relevant information.
