Concern Over Coordinated Hate Campaigns
Vitalik Buterin, co‑founder of Ethereum, has publicly criticized Elon Musk’s management of X, arguing that the platform has devolved into a hub for coordinated hate campaigns. In a series of posts on Tuesday, Buterin expressed concern over the increasing hostility on the platform, particularly attacks targeting Europe, which he described as unhinged and more akin to coordinated attempts to delegitimize rather than meaningful debate.
Call for a Different Direction
Buterin urged Musk to reconsider his role in shaping the platform’s discourse. He warned that turning X into a platform for coordinated hate could harm the cause of free speech. Buterin also suggested that Musk is influencing the platform’s algorithms to amplify polarization, stating that it would be preferable to boost niceness instead of “ragebait.”
Support for Decentralized, Private Communication
The Ethereum co‑founder highlighted his recent donations to privacy‑focused communication tools, Session and SimpleX, emphasizing his support for decentralization and privacy. These contributions underscore his belief that alternatives to mainstream platforms are essential for a healthier online ecosystem.
Broader Implications for Social Media
Buterin’s criticism reflects broader concerns about the direction of social media platforms and their impact on public discourse. His comments underscore the importance of fostering a balanced and respectful online environment, reminding platform leaders that algorithmic choices shape the tone of conversation across the internet.
