Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin recently emphasized the importance of integrating decentralization and cooperation in the Ethereum ecosystem. He expressed concerns about the emergence of numerous projects within the ecosystem that may not be aligned with the overarching vision of Ethereum. To address this issue, Buterin proposed the concept of “Ethereum Alignment,” which aims to ensure that all projects contribute to creating a cohesive Ethereum ecosystem.
Buterin highlighted several key metrics that can be used to assess the alignment of projects with Ethereum’s long-term goals. These metrics include the use of open-source software, adherence to open standards, decentralization, security, and positive-sum contributions to the Ethereum community. Buterin believes that by establishing specific criteria, the Ethereum Foundation and other stakeholders can better evaluate which projects to support and use.
One of the key criteria identified by Buterin is the use of open-source software in Ethereum applications. He emphasized the importance of keeping core infrastructure components open and inspectable to ensure safety and prevent proprietary lock-in. Additionally, applications should strive for interoperability with the Ethereum ecosystem by utilizing open standards such as ERC-20 and ERC-1271.
Decentralization and security are also essential metrics for assessing project alignment with Ethereum’s goals. Buterin proposed the walkaway test and the insider attack test as ways to evaluate a project’s resilience against team disappearances and internal attacks. Furthermore, projects should aim to positively contribute to the Ethereum community through various means, such as using ETH as a token or donating to public goods.
Buterin’s ultimate goal is to see more entities like L2beat emerge to track how closely Ethereum projects adhere to the criteria of Ethereum Alignment. However, he emphasized the need for the Ethereum Foundation to maintain a decentralized approach in evaluating project alignment. By making alignment criteria more transparent and accessible to all stakeholders, Buterin believes that the Ethereum ecosystem can become more effective, fair, and inclusive in pursuing its goals of decentralization and cooperation.
