Weak Subjectivity Definition
Weak subjectivity refers to a security model in blockchain technology, particularly in Proof of Stake (PoS) systems, where the validity of the blockchain state is dependent on the subjective decisions of the nodes in the network. This model assumes that a majority of the validators are honest and will not collude to attack the network. It also assumes that users are periodically online to update their view of the network.
Weak Subjectivity Key Points
- Weak subjectivity is a security model used in Proof of Stake (PoS) blockchain systems.
- The model assumes that the majority of validators in the network are honest and will not collude to attack the network.
- It also assumes that users are periodically online to update their view of the network.
- Weak subjectivity is a contrast to the objective security model of Proof of Work (PoW) systems, where the longest chain is always considered the valid chain.
What is Weak Subjectivity?
Weak subjectivity is a concept that is integral to the security of Proof of Stake (PoS) blockchain systems. Unlike Proof of Work (PoW) systems, where the longest chain is always considered the valid chain, PoS systems rely on the subjective decisions of the nodes in the network to determine the validity of the blockchain state. This is because in PoS systems, the validators, or nodes that create new blocks, are chosen based on their stake in the network, rather than their computational power.
Why is Weak Subjectivity Important?
Weak subjectivity is important because it provides a different approach to securing a blockchain network. By relying on the subjective decisions of the nodes, it allows for a more decentralized and democratic process of validating transactions and creating new blocks. This is in contrast to PoW systems, where the power to create new blocks is concentrated in the hands of those with the most computational power.
Who Uses Weak Subjectivity?
Weak subjectivity is used by Proof of Stake (PoS) blockchain systems. Some notable examples of PoS systems include Ethereum 2.0, Cardano, and Polkadot. These systems use weak subjectivity as part of their security model to ensure the integrity of their blockchain.
When is Weak Subjectivity Used?
Weak subjectivity is used whenever a transaction is validated or a new block is created in a PoS blockchain system. The validators in the network must make a subjective decision about the validity of the transaction or block, based on their view of the network.
How Does Weak Subjectivity Work?
Weak subjectivity works by relying on the subjective decisions of the validators in the network. These validators are chosen based on their stake in the network, and they are responsible for validating transactions and creating new blocks. The weak subjectivity model assumes that the majority of these validators are honest and will not collude to attack the network. It also assumes that users are periodically online to update their view of the network, which helps to ensure that the blockchain state remains valid and secure.
