The Over-Monetization Trap: How We Lost Sight of the Open Internet's Mission

The open internet was once a utopia where freedom, creativity, and shared knowledge flourished. It was a space where people could collaborate on amazing projects like Wikipedia, driven by a desire to create something cool and meaningful. Unfortunately, our modern obsession with monetization and technology has steered us away from this noble mission, threatening the essence of the internet itself.

In the early days of the internet, online communities were wild and inspiring places, united by a shared passion for creation and discovery. Over the past few decades, however, Silicon Valley's mantra of "track and monetize everything" has permeated nearly every aspect of our online lives. This shift in focus has had far-reaching consequences, altering the very nature of online communities.

Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs) have emerged as a prime example of this trend, attempting to impose financial and technological rules on online communities. Built on smart contracts, DAOs enable an unprecedented level of control and monetization. While these technologies undoubtedly have their place, their widespread adoption has overshadowed the human aspects of our online communities.

As we continue to over-monetize and over-tech our society, we risk losing the sense of camaraderie, empathy, and shared purpose that once defined the internet. This shift has raised important questions about the internet's future: Should it remain open and free, as it was in the 90s, or should we continue down the path of endless monetization in the name of "democratization"?

It's crucial to remember that organizations, decentralized or not, are human endeavors. No amount of money or technology can replace the importance of human relationships, trust, and leadership in driving innovation and progress. DAO founders must not forget that these organizations are merely tools to achieve a greater purpose and that they must prioritize the well-being of their members.

As we navigate this over-monetized and over-teched society, it's time to reevaluate our priorities and refocus on the open internet's original mission. We need to engage in honest conversations about the balance between monetization and the preservation of the internet as an open, accessible space for all.

In conclusion, we must challenge the idea that everything needs to be tracked and monetized. Instead, we should strive to restore the internet's founding principles of openness, collaboration, and human-centered values. By doing so, we can foster a thriving online ecosystem that benefits everyone.

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