What do you know about crypto currencies? NFTS?

What is decentralized technology? What do you think the difference is between distributed and decentralized networks?

What is the difference between a fungible token and a non-fungiable token? And why is this an important distinction in digital culture? 

NFT ART and …

Below are three projects that incorporated NFTS (Non Fungiable Tokens) 

The first is by Trevor Paglen (based in NYC and Berlin) who works at the intersection of technology, and art often exploring topics such as surveillance and AI. He exhibits at PACE gallery. 

The Second is a trailer for a TV show featuring a Bored Ape NFT by Seth Green that never happened because well his Bored Ape was stolen. 

And the third is Donald Trump

Trevor Paglen’s PRELUDES NFT Series, Explained 

NFT Market; https://opensea.io/ 

Trevor Paglen Preludes

Maybe the most embarrassing shit I’ve ever seen. The trailer for Seth Green’s Nft show.

Oh wait one more! Trump Digital Trading Cards

Compare these use cases

Who is Satoshi Nakamoto? The white paper and the mystery that may be finally cracked?

Don’t Think Adam Back is Satoshi: Nic Carter

Reading: 

Here is the original proof of concept 2009 Bitcoin white paper by Satoshi Nakamoto: Bitcoin: A Peer-to-Peer Electronic Cash System

  • Read the first two sections as a class closely and with intention. 
  • Split the class up in pairs assigning sections to pairs. Each pair should present the contents to class. 

How does blockchain work anyway? 

Here is a video that clearly explains what blockchain is and how it works, reinforcing what the article discusses. What is Blockchain Technology?

Discuss: 

  • What problem was Bitcoin designed to solve, and why does Satoshi argue that existing online payment systems were insufficient? What are some of the problems with centralized systems?
  • What are some of the ways Bitcoin removes the need for a trusted third party – like a bank or government?
  • Why is the public ledger (the blockchain) essential to how Bitcoin works?
    How does transparency help create trust in a system where users do not know each other?
  • Bitcoin relies on miners being rewarded with new bitcoins. How does this incentive system help keep the network secure? What are the environmental concerns? 
  • Satoshi Nakamoto describes Bitcoin as “electronic cash.” Based on the whitepaper, do you think Bitcoin functions more as money, technology, or ideology? Which aspect do you think is most important, and why?

Environmental Concerns: 

Discuss how resource intensive running a crypto farm is, high-powered, multi-computer setups designed to mine cryptocurrency, often using hundreds of ASIC miners or GPUs to solve complex algorithms for rewards. 

What is the difference between proof of work and proof of stake?

Ethereumhttps://www.investopedia.com/terms/p/proof-stake-pos.asp

Class Activity: 

NFTs about NFT challenge  

(work in pairs)

Using vibecoding, a graphic design program such as Photoshop or an audio program such as Reaper to make an “NFT” (digital asset) that explores an aspect of NFTs that are interesting to you. Your NFT may be just a digital asset or it may be connected to a larger community, cause or activity. 

  1. Brainstorm ideas 
  2. Create your NFT 
  3. Share with the class

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