Crypto can be viewed as one early and pivotal exodus from mainstream internet culture, and the next one is emerging with generative AI and LLMs. These shifts seem to defy the “dead internet theory”, indicating a future where the internet stays both fun and human. Broadly put, the removal of middlemen is paired with unparalleled creative potential. Moving deeper into this transformation, we see the traditional roles of content creation, distribution, and consumption being reimagined. The barriers that once confined our digital interactions are dissolving, paving the way for a more interconnected online experience.
Bitcoin and the subsequent proliferation of ICOs, memecoins, and NFTs marked a radical pivot in digital history. The intangible value of creativity could almost manifest in a materially tangible form. These ecosystems have since fostered cultures and projects that thrive autonomously, free from the constraints of maintenance or centralized control. In some cases, value comes from nothing - giving rise to markets that bet on the potential of people and nascent ideas. Concurrently, a set of principles have crystallized; words like 'minting' and 'onchain' epitomize the language of the new internet-native generation, crafting money and assets tailored for their digital existence.
Next, generative AI and LLMs seem to redefine nearly every sector. These technologies aren’t just new tools but gateways to unprecedented forms of expression. As we harness these models, the ability to craft effective prompts emerges as a critical skill. Websim exemplifies this potential, offering a sandbox for the imagination where users can construct and share their unique visions of the web. A platform not just about remixing content, but reimagining the entirety of our online experiences. Websim's non-deterministic nature means that every creation is a journey into the unknown, a digital exploration that feels like discovery. The fresh perspectives it brings to the “old internet” might be the most important piece here. It challenges creators to think beyond iteration, to simulate worlds that extend past our current boundaries. A testament to the transformative power of generative AI and LLMs.
Underground subcultures have always been the birthplaces of cultural revolutions, and the internet is no exception. Crypto communities, with their decentralized ethos, have clashed with centralized models, revealing a deep divide in values. Meanwhile, AI has sparked debates on ethics and creativity, challenging our notions of authorship and originality. These technologies have ignited discussions around bias and job displacement, but also offer a container for boundless innovation. The tension between autonomy and control shines through, a narrative that resonates with each party. Both are reshaping the internet's social fabric, but in markedly different ways.While the “dead internet theory” suggests a dystopia overrun by bots, the best parts of both crypto and AI break this mold. A cultural renaissance. In this digital exodus, we're not just spectators but active participants shaping an internet that reflects our collective imagination.