Navigating Bitcoin's Governance and OP_RETURN Debate

This chapter explores the contentious debate surrounding the OP_RETURN functionality in Bitcoin, advocating for node operators' agency and responsibility. It highlights critical issues, including the Samurai Wallet court case, the perceived inefficiencies in Bitcoin Core development, and the necessity for diverse implementations. Additionally, the chapter emphasizes the complexities of governance within the Bitcoin ecosystem, addressing community engagement and the implications of evolving protocol functionalities.