What was Web 1.0?
- Web 1.0 allowed us to only read and share info, typically either texts, images or links.
What is a smart contract?
2. A smart contract is programmable money or assets. It is a small bit of code that can run on the Ethereum blockchain (and others). The Ethereum blockchain uses the programming language Solidity. A smart contract can own money and other assets (tokens), and also be programmed to decide what to do with them. As in the Bitcoin blockchain, it is immuteable in that once created it cannot be changed.
How is transparency achieved with ethereum code?
3. Everyone can see in the contract who has what and where it is programmed to go based on a set of variables. It is trustless and transparent, and as such helps to streamline many processes by eliminating the need for middle men. Ivan offers the example of state housing queues. Once a contract like this is set up, it cannot be changed. If for example a new policy came along to fast track eg prioritise returning war veterans to state housing, this would not be possible unless such a contingent had been programmed into the original contract. You really would have to cover all bases.