Embracing the Cypherpunk Legacy: The Resonance and Significance of 'Onward' in Blockchain and Cryptography
There is deep context behind the word 'Onward', it emulates the significance of privacy in the digital age.
“The Cypherpunks are actively engaged in making the networks safer for privacy. Let us proceed together apace.
Onward.”
— Eric Hughes | A Cypherpunks Manifesto (1993)
Why do we say Onward?
The term ‘Onward’ possesses a rich and intricate connotation, especially within Cypherpunk culture, computer science, cryptography, and Blockchain. This phrase transcends its literal meaning of any forward movement; it embodies a philosophical stance against the risks of unchecked centralisation.
The use of 'Onward' symbolises a commitment to advancing the cause of the human-right-to-privacy, underpinning the fundamental principles of agency, encryption, and democratised access to public goods. These goods extend to education, life-sustaining resources, and critically, the proliferation of plural communication methodologies.
For those who have shared a drink or two with me, you’ll know I will always salute glass in hand uttering the word ‘onward’. A cheers to progressing the blockchain, cryptography and open-finance industry; and all public goods. This includes an emphasis on open-access to AGI, which holds the potential to revolutionise numerous fields raising all ships, equally exposing all if unchecked.
My journey into the heart of decentralised values often leads me to the Nakamoto Institute (link below) an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to enrich their understanding the intricacies of privacy, identity, and the foundational theories underlying blockchain and Bitcoin.
Hal Finney’s ‘Bitcoin and Me’ (2013)
After reading the late Hal Finney ‘Bitcoin and Me’ (2013) (link below), which delves into Hal’s history speaking with Satoshi Nakamoto, providing input to the Bitcoin protocol and his emotional reflections of his mental/physical struggles with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease). It is in these emotions I found renown-Cryptography and Cypherpunk, Eric Hughes’ ‘A Cypherpunk’s Manifesto’ (1993); This manifesto is not just a document, it's a beacon of thought leadership in cryptography and privacy. Links below.
Hal Finney’s reflections are particularly moving, providing a unique perspective on his life with ALS. His quotes reveal a man undeterred by his physical limitations, finding solace and purpose in his continued ability to engage with programming, albeit at a significantly reduced pace. His words resonate with a profound sense of resilience and passion for his work.
Attempting to Code - Hal Finney (2013)
“It has been an adjustment, but my life is not too bad. I can still read, listen to music, and watch TV and movies. I recently discovered that I can even write code. It's very slow, probably 50 times slower than I was before. But I still love programming and it gives me goals.”
Leaving his Legacy - Hal Finney (2013)
“That's my story. I'm pretty lucky overall. Even with the ALS, my life is very satisfying. But my life expectancy is limited. Those discussions about inheriting your bitcoins are of more than academic interest. My bitcoins are stored in our safe deposit box, and my son and daughter are tech savvy. I think they're safe enough. I'm comfortable with my legacy.”
Eric Hughes ‘A Cypherpunk Manifesto’ (1993)
It is in the A Cypherpunk’s Manifesto the word ‘Onward’ can be found. It is the very last word at the end of the paper.
I want to avoid spoiling the entire paper (link below), it is a must read. This is not merely a casual sign-off but a powerful call to action. The manifesto, which I encourage readers to explore without spoilers, articulates a compelling argument for the relentless pursuit of a world where privacy and open discourse on privacy and secrecy are not just valued but fiercely protected.
It serves as a reminder of the often-overlooked efforts of the brilliant minds in research, cryptography, and computer science who have waged a largely unacknowledged battle for the right to privacy – a struggle with far-reaching global implications.
So Onward… thank you Eric and all Cypherpunks for fighting for my right-to-privacy.
Onward.
Links
1. Nakamoto Institute - https://nakamotoinstitute.org/literature/
2. Bitcoin and Me (2013) - https://nakamotoinstitute.org/bitcoin-and-me/
3. A Cypherpunks Manifesto (1993) - https://nakamotoinstitute.org/cypherpunk-manifesto/
Disclaimer: AI edited the my original posted (original article) to improve readership for a wider audience.