What is web 3 about? 

In the milieu of conversations surrounding "Web 3" that commenced several years ago, a myriad of self-anointed "thought leaders" embarked on discussions that hailed it as the next evolutionary leap for the internet. However, upon closer examination, it becomes evident that many of these dialogues and written expositions were lacking in substantive depth. Laden with jargon and superficial analyses, they often fixated on transient tech trends such as blockchain, virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and artificial intelligence (AI).

Yet, as the sands of time continued to sift, a more discernible understanding of Web 3 began to crystallize. No longer consigned to the realm of mere conjecture or buzzwords, its essence began to materialize through tangible actions and projects that sought to reshape the technological landscape.

At its core, Web 3 encapsulates three pivotal themes, each poised to redefine the very fabric of the internet:

Firstly, the theme of identity emerges as paramount. Amid mounting concerns over data privacy and security, Web 3 advocates for heightened control over personal information online. This imperative, stemming from cybersecurity and privacy imperatives, underscores the need for bolstered digital sovereignty, ensuring individuals retain agency over their own data.

Secondly, decentralization emerges as a potent counterpoint to the hegemony of tech behemoths. With power disproportionately centralized among a select few, Web 3 champions a more distributed governance model, fostering inclusivity and mitigating the monopolistic tendencies that have come to characterize the current internet landscape.

Thirdly, interoperability serves as the linchpin for a more cohesive digital ecosystem. Addressing the fragmentation and siloing that plague today's internet, Web 3 prioritizes seamless interaction and data exchange across diverse platforms, thereby bridging existing divides and fostering greater cohesion.

These foundational principles, far from being mere theoretical abstractions, find tangible expression in projects such as Affinidi's Trust Network and Mastodon. These endeavors serve as exemplars of Web 3's commitment to identity protection, data ownership, and the proliferation of decentralized alternatives to traditional social media platforms.

In conclusion, while the trajectory of Web 3 may have initially been obscured by the haze of hype and conjecture, its path forward is now becoming increasingly discernible. By foregrounding principles of identity protection, decentralization, and interoperability, Web 3 holds the promise of ushering in a new era of internet governance — one rooted in equity, transparency, and user-centricity.

Guided conversation questions: 

1. 1. What are some common criticisms of the discussions surrounding "Web 3" that began several years ago?

   2. How has the understanding of Web 3 evolved over time, moving beyond mere conjecture and buzzwords?

   3. In what ways does Web 3 advocate for heightened control over personal information online, particularly in light of concerns about data privacy and security?

   4. Why is decentralization considered a potent counterpoint to the hegemony of tech giants in the current internet landscape?

   5. How does Web 3 prioritize interoperability, and why is it essential for fostering a more cohesive digital ecosystem?

   6. Can you provide examples of tangible projects that embody the principles of Web 3, such as Affinidi's Trust Network and Mastodon?

   7. What role do you think decentralized alternatives like Mastodon play in reshaping traditional social media platforms?

   8. How do you envision the future trajectory of Web 3, considering its emphasis on principles like identity protection, decentralization, and interoperability?

   9. In what ways might Web 3 contribute to a more equitable, transparent, and user-centric internet governance model?

   10. What challenges or obstacles do you foresee in the widespread adoption and implementation of Web 3 principles in the digital landscape?