Michaela
Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has criticized Elon Musk, owner of X, over the platform’s “tone of discourse” and warned against silencing dissenting voices.
In a December 31 post on X, Buterin responded to Musk, expressing admiration for his commitment to free speech but warning against the use of the βsocial media banhammer.β
βRespecting free speech is easy when we agree with the speech, and hard when we think it’s awful,β Buterin wrote.
Buterinβs remarks followed an explicit post by Musk on X, where Musk defended the rights of comΡanies to employ immigrants in the United States under H-1B visa programs.
βThe reason Iβm in America along with so many critical people who built SpaceX, Tesla, and hundreds of other companies that made America strong is because of H1B,β Elon Musk wrote in response to a critic. The critic had accused Musk of attempting to optimize an allegedly non-existent issue regarding the H-1B visa program.
Musk drew backlash from some MAGA Republican supporters of President-elect Donald Trump after expressing support on X for hiring foreign tech workers at leading U.S. companies. Critics argued that such practices make job opportunities less favorable for American citizens.
Related: Russia Launches Terror Probe Into Telegram CEO Durov In Criminal Case
Additionally, some conservatives accused Elon Musk of censorship, claiming his social media platform had removed premium features from accounts critical of his stance.
Buterin further advised Musk to be more wary of his tone and ensure that he used his power on X for the benefit of humanity. βAnd it’s worth reflecting on just how much tone of discourse has fallen here over the past couple of years,β he wrote.
Additionally, the prolific crypto innovator emphasized the critical influence that leaders hold in shaping discoursΠ΅ and setting the tone in public debates.
He concluded his response by stating that achieving humanityβs goals, such as reaching Mars, would not be accomplished through “wartime mode” but through a “brighter” approach β one that he urged society to embrace immediately.
Related: OpenAI Debated Police Call Before Canada Mass Shooting Suspect Chats Online
Buterin Donates to Pertsev and Storm Legal Defense
Buterin is widely regarded as someone who prioritizes the greater good in his contributions to technology and society. Since co-founding Ethereum, Buterin has been vocal about using blockchain technology to solve real-world problems, promote decentralization, and empower individuals. His focus often extends beyond profit, emphasizing ethics, inclusivity, and innovation.
Recently, he made a significant donation of Ethereum to the legal defense fund supporting Tornado Cash developers Roman Storm and Alexey Pertsev. His support of the developers is likely rooted in his advocacy for decentralization and privacy within the blockchain ecosystem.
It is worth noting that Buterin himself has acknowledged using Tornado Cash for legitimate purposes, such as donating to Ukraine during its conflict with Russia, to protect recipient identities.
Read More
- Elon Musk Says βLMAOβ to Senator Warrenβs Conflict-of-Interest Comment
- Vitalik Buterin Sells Memecoin Holdings, Donates to Charity
- SEC Chair Gensler Threatens Elon Musk with Charges Unless Settlement is Reached in 48 Hours
MICHAELA
Michaela is a news writer focused on cryptocurrency and blockchain topics. She prioritizes rigorous research and accuracy to uncover interesting angles and ensure engaging reporting. A lifelong book lover, she applies her passion for reading to deeply explore the constantly evolving crypto world.
