Decentralization is a term widely used in a variety of contexts, particularly in political science and discourses surrounding the Internet. It is popular today among advocates of blockchain tech- nology. While frequently employed as if it were a technical term, decentralization more reliably appears to operate as a rhetorical strategy that directs attention toward some aspects of a proposed social order and away from others.
Notes for attendees: This will be a Melee Presentation. After a short piece of framing from the facilitator, the floor will be open for short two-minute reflections (possibly accompanied by slides) from participants, before the discussion session proper begins. If you would like to present in this format, please add your details to the signup sheet.