In both the world of cryptocurrency and the realm of fashion, there is a shared desire for wide acceptance and the elimination of friction or roadblocks.
This post does not exist to defend statist approach or to bash crypto. It is merely a speculation, let's say a risk analysis, of how bad things could in theory get, no matter how good the original intentions were. We are looking at both the world of digital currency and the world of fashion here as there are some very clear similarities.
The desire for freedom, when taken to the extreme, this longing for complete freedom and lack of judgment can give rise to a dystopian future. This speculation explores the potential adverse consequences that may arise if the pursuit of a frictionless utopia becomes the dominant ideology in both the cryptocurrency and fashion industries.
Art by Rai Shankara / Instagram - Used with permission
Loss of Accountability and Security: A society built upon unrestricted acceptance in cryptocurrency and fashion may lead to a lack of accountability and security. In the world of crypto, decentralization and anonymity are cherished attributes; but an excess of freedom without any regulation or oversight can enable fraudulent activities and illegal transactions to flourish. We've all seen that happen. Similarly, in the fashion world, the absence of quality control and regulation may result in unsafe or unethical production practices, compromising the well-being of workers and consumers alike. The question is whether the frictionless experience is really worth it.
Proliferation of Irresponsibility and Exploitation: When there are no roadblocks or limits to acceptance, the potential for irresponsibility and exploitation increases. In cryptocurrency, the absence of regulations and checks can be exploited by unscrupulous individuals, leading to financial scams and Ponzi schemes that negatively impact innocent investors. Similarly, within fashion, the lack of restrictions can result in the misuse and appropriation of cultural symbols or designs, perpetuating harmful stereotypes and exploiting marginalized communities.
Erosion of Privacy and Identity Theft: A future focused solely on removing friction in both cryptocurrency and fashion may also lead to the erosion of privacy and a rise in identity theft. In the crypto realm, anonymity can be advantageous, but in a world with no roadblocks, individuals may become vulnerable to identity theft and malicious actors. Similarly, in fashion, the removal of barriers may lead to the commodification of personal identity, allowing corporations to manipulate and exploit individuals' self-expression for profit.
Inequality and the Exclusion of Marginalized Communities: Paradoxically, the relentless pursuit of unrestricted acceptance in both finance and self-expression may further exacerbate inequality and marginalization. Without guidelines or barriers, those with the most resources and power will dominate, leaving little room for emerging voices or marginalized communities. The absence of gatekeepers and conscious gatekeeping could perpetuate systemic biases and hinder progress towards a more inclusive society.
Let's wrap it up, shall we? While the ideal of unfettered acceptance and frictionless experiences in cryptocurrency and fashion may initially seem appealing, it is crucial to recognize the potential dystopian consequences. Loss of accountability, exploitation, erosion of privacy, and exclusion of marginalized communities are just a few of the risks associated with unregulated freedom. Striking a balance between acceptance and responsible practices, while still valuing diversity and innovation, is essential to prevent the dystopian future that may arise from a world without friction and roadblocks in these industries.