The Core Principles of Ethereum

Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin recently reiterated his views on the platform's core principles through a social media post. He emphasized that Ethereum, as a decentralized protocol, is inherently open and neutral. Regardless of whether users align with his views on DeFi, privacy payments, or AI, anyone should be free to use the platform.

Balancing Neutrality and Value Judgments

Buterin pointed out that while the Ethereum protocol should remain neutral, this doesn't prevent individuals or communities from making value-based decisions. In fact, communities should clearly define their own principles and build ecosystems that reflect those values.

Diversity Through Openness

He also noted that the openness of Ethereum naturally leads to it being used in various ways by people with different beliefs. This diversity isn't just inevitable—it's a natural extension of the platform's decentralized nature.

  • Ethereum should maintain its permissionless and censorship-resistant properties
  • Individuals and communities can make choices based on their values
  • Protocol-level neutrality ensures broad applicability of the technology