Neal Stephenson, the author who coined the term “metaverse” in his 1992 sci-fi novel “Snow Crash,” is now leading a blockchain company called Lamina1 and advocating for a free and open metaverse. In a recent interview with Dan Roberts and Stephen Graves, Stephenson discussed his predictions in “Snow Crash,” the future of technology, and the importance of digital ownership.
Stephenson admitted that he got some things wrong in his novel, such as the use of goggles instead of flat screens for virtual reality. However, he believes that the concept of the metaverse is becoming more relevant than ever, especially with the rise of NFTs and the need for digital ownership.
He also expressed concerns about the power of Big Tech companies and their potential to dominate the metaverse. Stephenson believes that a free and open metaverse is crucial for innovation and creativity, and that blockchain technology can help achieve this goal.
Lamina1, Stephenson’s blockchain company, aims to create a decentralized metaverse where users have control over their digital assets and identities. The company is currently working on a platform called “Terraform,” which will allow users to create and customize their own virtual worlds.
Stephenson’s vision for the metaverse is one where users can freely explore and interact with each other, without the constraints of corporate control. He believes that the metaverse has the potential to revolutionize the way we live, work, and play, and that it’s up to us to shape its future.
To hear more from Neal Stephenson on the metaverse and blockchain technology, check out the gm podcast on Apple or Spotify.
