Dr. Michael Abramowicz, Associate Dean for Strategy and Innovation at George Washington University, unpacks the evolution of decentralized blockchain governance. He highlights how blockchain adjudication methods are revolutionizing decision-making, while emphasizing the importance of incentives in these systems. Dr. Abramowicz critiques current practices and discusses historical frameworks like Kleros. He also touches on the tension between traditional business hierarchies and newer decentralized models, revealing how technology challenges existing legal structures.

The authors of recently published “Blockchain Governance”  joined the Techquitable podcast to discuss how governance over blockchain communities is formed. It was a pleasure to learn about their research on governance and the importance of decentralization in blockchain communities.Timestamps:[2:40] - Why collaborate to write a book on blockchain governance?[6:15] - Who should read the book? Why?[17:00] - Tension between how regulation should work, and how it actually does[28:35] - Different governance structures[34:11] - Will we reach a consistent perspective on the optimal blockchain governance approach?[41:00] - What each author hopes readers learn from their bookFor more on each guest:Primavera (@yaoeo) is a Director of Research at the National Center of Scientific Research (CNRS) in Paris, Faculty Associate at the Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society at Harvard University.Wessel (@WesselReijers) is a Postdoctoral Researcher at the Department of Media Studies, Paderborn University, where he explores the nature of distributed governance.Morshed (@MannanMorshed) is a Research Fellow at the Robert Schuman Centre for Advanced Studies at the European University Institute, where his research focuses on blockchain governance.

Andy Hall, a political economy expert at Stanford and advisor to major tech firms, delves into the evolution of governance in the context of emerging technologies. He reflects on how the 2016 election pivoted his career towards blockchain and Web3 governance. The discussion highlights the importance of decentralized decision-making, the potential longevity of excitement in crypto, and the need for academia to tackle real-world challenges. With a tone of optimism, Andy envisions a future where technology enhances democratic processes and fosters user agency.

@sheila_warren is the CEO of the Crypto Council for Innovation, a premier global alliance for advancing the promise of digital assets through research, education and advocacy. In 2023, Sheila was voted one of the most influential women in DC by the Washingtonian and previously founded the World Economic Forum’s blockchain and digital assets team. It was a pleasure to have her join the Techquitable podcast to share her perspective on the stalled crypto policy in America, her work at CCI and much more.  Timestamps: [1:50] - Sheila’s background in data  [6:39] - The new Trump administration’s impact on crypto [14:25] - The importance of crypto in the recent U.S. election [19:45] - CCI’s approach to policy engagement [20:40] - Decentralization as the next foundational question [23:20] - Interoperability between critical jurisdictions [29:10] - Sheila’s biggest concern for the crypto industry

Dr. Kelsie Nabben, an ethnographic researcher focusing on the social impacts of emerging technologies, discusses the intricacies of decentralized systems. She shares insights into resilience within blockchain and the challenges of researching in the digital realm. The conversation navigates vulnerabilities in digital networks and highlights community-driven solutions. Kelsie also addresses the ethical implications of blockchain security, emphasizing the role of accountability in decentralized finance and the future potential of these technologies.

Paul Brigner leads the Coinbase Institute and is the founder of the PGP* (Pretty Good Policy) for Crypto group. He joined us on the Techquitable podcast to discuss what he’s hearing in Washington, the importance of decentralization and much more. Timestamps: [3:00] - Paul’s unique background [9:20] - The progression of the internet [11:40] - The current blockchain advocacy community in DC [19:40] - Announcing the DC Privacy Summit [20:55] - How to best educate staffers and opportunities for blockchain [25:45] - The importance of decentralization [32:00] - How do we avoid the mistakes of the past?

Kyle Bligen, Director of Financial Policy at the Chamber of Progress joins the Techquitable podcast to discuss what he’s hearing in Washington on legislation affecting blockchain technology, decentralization and much more. Timestamps: [0:30] - Introduction to Kyle [2:50] - What Kyle is hearing on the Hill [7:40] - The current campaign landscape and former President Trump [10:00] - Policy priorities ahead of the election [15:00] - Are policymakers sufficiently educated? [20:00] - Is policy trending in an equitable direction? [25:12] - Kyle’s recommendations for future policy [33:11] - A look into Congress and their relationship with blockchain technology

Professor Eric Alston, a DRC Fellow specializing in economics and law, shares his insightful perspectives on decentralization in digital governance. He discusses the transformative impact of blockchains on constitutions and institutions. Alston highlights the balance between privacy rights and compliance, introducing zero-knowledge proofs as a key solution. He also emphasizes the need for equitable governance models that prioritize user needs in a hyper-connected world, advocating for a passion-driven approach to career growth in this evolving landscape.

Congressman Wiley Nickel (@RepWileyNickel) is currently serving his first term in Congress as the U.S. Representative of the 13th District of North Carolina which includes Wake, Wayne, Johnston and Harnett Counties. Prior to being elected to Congress, Wiley served as a North Carolina State Senator, attorney, small business owner and worked for two White House administrations. This conversation occurred at the 2024 Equitable Tech Summit, which the DRC co-hosted in Washington, D.C. 0:55 - Why does the Congressman engage in tech policy? 4:10 - How can policy balance innovation and consumer protection? 7:00 - Will President Joe Biden soften his stance on digital assets? 10:40 - The importance of decentralization 16:20 - How academics can best influence policy 23:35 - What does equitable ownership and governance mean to Congressman Wiley?

Nathan Schneider, an expert on decentralized governance, engages in a thought-provoking discussion about the need for accountable structures in decentralized systems. He tackles the ethics and power dynamics in emerging tech, highlighting democracy's decline in the digital domain. The conversation also delves into the challenges of decentralization, including the illusions of power it creates and the complexities of governing decentralized organizations (DAOs). Schneider emphasizes the importance of viewing digital platforms as public goods to enhance equity and inclusivity.