Web3: The Rise Of The Aligned Web

Web3: The Rise Of The Aligned Web

In today's digital landscape, the adversarial web has become all too familiar. We are bombarded with pervasive surveillance, fake news, disinformation, and a moderation crisis. It seems like every corner of the internet is filled with SPAM and advertorial content. But why is this the case? My thesis is that these negative characteristics of the web, commonly known as web2, stem from a misalignment of incentives that is deeply rooted in how money flows within it.

To understand this misalignment, we must first recognize the innate orthogonality of web2. Web 2.0 operates with its own interests, agendas, metrics, and goals, and it doesn't prioritize our personal and spiritual development. Instead, its objective is to shape us into biddable consumers who support commerce. It's not concerned with destroying or building our morals; it simply aims to cultivate behaviors and feelings that drive consumption.

One of the key aspects of web2 is the importance of content. In this era, content is king. It drives unique visitors, conversion rates, and ultimately, customers. However, the distribution of content comes at a cost, and that cost is far from zero. Many people fail to realize that physical content distribution centers exist, just like Amazon's distribution centers for physical goods. These centers require substantial capital and are location-dependent.

The complexity and indirection of this content distribution model are often overlooked. Users are paying for the messaging they receive, but they do so via an indirect route. Furthermore, at the heart of this system are physical servers that consume electricity, are made from raw materials, and require human maintenance.

In contrast, the aligned web offers a different approach. It emphasizes transparency and accountability. Everyone can see who is paying for what. This level of visibility ensures that the flow of money is aligned with the flow of value. It eliminates hidden agendas and allows users to make informed decisions about the content they consume.

Now, let's shift gears and explore another topic that is transforming the digital landscape — TikTok. This social media platform has gained immense popularity, particularly among Gen Z users. Recently, TikTok launched a pilot version of Resumes, a feature that allows users to apply for jobs through video resumes.

Resumes capitalizes on Gen Z's desire for authenticity in all aspects of life, including work. Video resumes provide candidates with a dynamic way to showcase their energy and creativity, qualities that are often hard to convey through a traditional paper resume. These video resumes offer a more holistic view of a candidate's personality and potential.

However, despite the benefits, the adoption of the Resumes feature has been slow. Many candidates may hesitate to use it due to concerns about privacy and the potential for employers to explore their TikTok profiles. Making and editing a video resume can also be intimidating, especially for candidates who are not accustomed to appearing on camera.

So, will TikTok kill LinkedIn for Gen Z? It's too early to say. While TikTok's Resumes feature offers a fresh and engaging way to present oneself, it may take time for users to fully embrace it. LinkedIn, on the other hand, has established itself as the go-to platform for professional networking and job searches. It has a proven track record and a large user base, making it the default choice for many employers and job seekers.

In conclusion, the rise of the aligned web highlights the need for transparency and accountability in the digital landscape. By aligning the flow of money with the flow of value, we can mitigate the negative characteristics of web2. Additionally, the emergence of innovative features like TikTok's Resumes demonstrates the evolving nature of social media and its impact on the job market. As we navigate these changes, here are three actionable pieces of advice:

• 1. Embrace transparency: Support platforms and initiatives that prioritize transparency and accountability. By actively seeking out and engaging with content that aligns with your values, you contribute to a more aligned web.

• 2. Explore new avenues: Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and experiment with emerging platforms and features. Whether it's video resumes on TikTok or other innovative approaches, embracing new tools can give you a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving job market.

• 3. Balance authenticity with professionalism: While authenticity is valued, it's important to strike a balance between being true to yourself and presenting a professional image. When creating video resumes or engaging on social media, consider how your actions and content may be perceived by potential employers.

By implementing these actions, we can help shape the future of the web and create a digital landscape that is aligned with our values and aspirations.