Why NFT Creators Are Going cc0: Embracing Openness in the Digital Art World

Why NFT Creators Are Going cc0: Embracing Openness in the Digital Art World

In recent years, the rise of NFTs (non-fungible tokens) has revolutionized the art world. These unique digital assets have captured the attention of artists, collectors, and investors alike, with multi-million dollar sales making headlines. But amidst this frenzy, a new trend is emerging among NFT creators – the adoption of the cc0 license.

cc0, or Creative Commons Zero, is a rights-waiving tool introduced by the Creative Commons nonprofit organization in 2009. Unlike other NFTs that allow owners to commercialize their intellectual property, cc0 holders do not have the right to exclude others from using the same IP. This might seem counterintuitive, but there are several reasons why NFT creators are choosing this path.

One primary motivation for embracing cc0 is the desire to foster a more vibrant and engaged community. By allowing open sharing and encouraging the creation of derivatives, creators can extend the original project and invite others to contribute. This aligns with the core philosophy of the crypto world, where community-building and collaboration are highly valued. As new interpretations and derivatives emerge, attention flows back to the original, strengthening its place in the collective consciousness. This flywheel effect can increase the value of the original artwork, similar to how platform network effects drive the growth of digital platforms.

The concept of open source movements also plays a crucial role in the success of cryptocurrencies and NFT communities. Just as open source software invites collaboration and experimentation, cc0 NFTs enable cooperative opportunities among strangers. In decentralized systems like crypto, trust and coordination are essential, and the dynamics of cooperation thrive in this environment. Giving individuals ownership over their digital assets allows them to internalize the results of co-creation, benefiting from the value that accrues to their contributions.

To reach the full potential of cc0 NFTs, supporting infrastructure services must be readily available. Composability, or the ability to plug assets into various platforms, is key to growth. By building these digital assets on public standards atop interoperable infrastructure, users can leverage third-party expansions and derivatives to drive increased demand for the original cc0 assets. This not only creates new sources of revenue but also turns competition into cooperation. Instead of companies creating knockoffs or imitations, they can use the actual work, benefiting both the original creator and the company.

The concept of the ten-book rule, popularized by Scott H Young, can offer insights into the adoption of cc0 in the NFT space. This rule suggests that reading ten well-chosen books on a subject can provide a good understanding of the expert consensus. However, it's important to select the right books – those that represent the dominant viewpoints and authoritative sources in the field. By following this approach, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of the benefits and potential of cc0 NFTs.

In conclusion, the shift towards cc0 in the NFT world represents a paradigm shift towards openness and collaboration. By embracing open sharing and encouraging derivative creations, NFT creators can build vibrant communities and increase the value of their original artwork. The principles of open source and cooperative opportunities align perfectly with the decentralized nature of cryptocurrencies and NFTs. To fully harness the potential of cc0 NFTs, supporting infrastructure services and composability must be prioritized.

Actionable Advice:

• 1. Embrace openness and collaboration: Consider adopting a cc0 license for your NFT creations to foster a vibrant and engaged community.

• 2. Select the right resources: When researching a topic, follow the ten-book rule and choose authoritative sources that represent the expert consensus.

• 3. Leverage composability: Take advantage of the interoperable nature of cc0 NFTs by plugging your assets into various platforms, expanding their reach and potential revenue streams.

By understanding the motivations behind the adoption of cc0 in the NFT space and implementing these actionable advice, creators can unlock the full potential of open sharing, collaboration, and the value of their digital assets.