Upgrading 5400 years old tech: tools for better reading and a beginner's guide to social tokens

Upgrading 5400 years old tech: tools for better reading and a beginner's guide to social tokens

Reading has been a fundamental skill for thousands of years, and it remains one of the most efficient ways to absorb information. In fact, the average person reads at a speed of 250 words per minute (wpm). This speed has remained relatively unchanged since the invention of writing and reading 5400 years ago. However, with the advent of digital technology, there are now tools available to enhance the reading experience and make it even more effective.

One such tool is the concept of social reading. Social reading involves using plugins or platforms that allow readers to connect with others and share their reading experiences. This trend is here to stay, and it's just getting started. One example of a social reading plugin is Glasp, which acts as a curator and filter for readers, helping them discover new books and connect with like-minded individuals. By leveraging the power of social networks, social reading can enhance the reading experience and create a sense of community around books.

Another tool that is revolutionizing the way we consume content is the concept of social tokens. Social tokens are tokens issued by individual creators or communities that enable community members to collaborate and share ownership in the value created together. These tokens can be earned as rewards for contributing to the group and can be used for various purposes, such as granting access to a chat group or voting on community decisions.

Social tokens can be used in conjunction with NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) to create strong communities. A single community can make use of both social tokens and NFTs, using social tokens for governance decisions and NFTs to reward contributors. For example, social tokens can be used to reward supporters with early access to merchandise or exclusive opportunities.

There are a number of platforms that make it easy for creators and communities to mint their own social tokens, such as Coinvise, Rally, and Roll. However, it's important to think through how freely traded tokens can affect community morale and cohesion. To address this, some communities make tokens non-transferable in the early stages, as the community is forming. Long vesting schedules can also ensure that community members are aligned for the long term.

In conclusion, reading and social tokens are two areas where ancient practices are being upgraded with modern technology. By embracing social reading and social tokens, readers can enhance their reading experience and connect with like-minded individuals. Here are three actionable pieces of advice to consider:

1. Explore social reading plugins like Glasp to discover new books and connect with others who share similar interests.

2. Consider implementing social tokens in your community to foster collaboration and ownership. Platforms like Coinvise, Rally, and Roll can help you mint your own tokens.

3. When using social tokens, carefully consider the impact on community morale and cohesion. Implement measures like non-transferability in the early stages and long vesting schedules to ensure long-term alignment.

With these tools and strategies, we can continue to upgrade and optimize our reading experience for the modern age.