Vitalik Buterin, the co-founder of Ethereum, has firmly dismissed suggestions that the original Ethereum blockchain should be allowed to deteriorate in favor of creating a new network from scratch. Instead, Buterin has introduced an ambitious strategy aimed at revitalizing the existing Ethereum infrastructure through significant upgrades while maintaining its operational integrity.
The discussion was sparked by a user on platform X, who argued that Buterin should let the current version of Ethereum “die a slow and painful death by fragmentation.” This perspective advocates for a complex ecosystem of layer-2 rollups, application chains, and increased institutional participation. The user even suggested that Buterin should initiate a fresh start, crafting a purely “cypherpunk chain” based on RISC-V architecture to demonstrate dominance in the space.
However, Buterin swiftly countered this notion, laying out a comprehensive plan to innovate the network from within. His vision includes the development of a “cypherpunk principled non-ugly Ethereum,” which would serve as a cohesive addition to the existing system. The objective is to gradually enhance the new infrastructure alongside the current blockchain while infusing Ethereum”s foundational layer with core cypherpunk principles.
Buterin likened Ethereum”s transformation to replacing components of an aircraft mid-flight. “Ethereum has already made jet engine changes in-flight once,” he noted, expressing confidence that the network could undergo similar modifications approximately four more times.
According to Buterin, this ambitious overhaul could be realized within a five-year timeframe. He mentioned that advancements in artificial intelligence could significantly accelerate this process. “Then, in five years (or perhaps even sooner with AI coding and verification), we have an open pathway to turn the existing system into smart contracts written in the language of the new system if or when we desire,” he stated.
As the Ethereum community grapples with its future, Buterin”s proactive approach might just be the key to ensuring the network not only survives but thrives in an ever-evolving blockchain landscape.
