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description: Why are they important? What can they accomplish that web2 platforms cannot?
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# Decentralized Social Networks

**Why Do We Need a Decentralized Social Graph?**

**1. The Censorship Problem**

In our current digital landscape, a handful of major corporations determine which social opinions, ideas, and content see the light of day. Censorship is multifaceted:

* Platforms may suspend users due to political biases.
* National pressures can result in specific content being suppressed.
* Mysterious censorships, such as shadow banning, arise without clear explanations.

**2. Undervalued Creators**

Content creators infuse the web with immense value, but the current structure of Web 2.0 ensures they receive only a tiny fraction of the rewards their content deserves.

**3. The Dilemma of Siloed Data**

Web 2.0's centralized framework means our social data is trapped in isolated pockets, often termed "walled gardens." Transferring data across platforms? It's usually daunting or downright impossible. This system increases switching costs, causing users to re-establish and declare connections each time they join a new platform—wasting time and adding unnecessary friction.

**4. Curtailed Innovation**

Isolated data isn't just inconvenient—it's an innovation killer. Only a select few have access to our comprehensive data, sidelining independent developers who might want to build upon it. Imagine someone wanting to design a superior Instagram interface or a more intuitive feed algorithm. They can't access the vast amounts of user-generated data—even if users willingly offer it. Platforms like Discord have made slight strides by giving developers some data access through their SDKs for bots. However, this too is restricted, only providing what the platform is willing to share.

With **Friendly Fins**, we envision a decentralized future that addresses these concerns, ensuring a more open, innovative, and user-focused digital experience.
