Bluesky and Nostr, two emerging social media platforms, are navigating different growth challenges as they attempt to reshape the digital communication landscape. Bluesky, benefiting from its Twitter spinoff status and robust initial press coverage, has managed to attract 5.5 million users by positioning itself as a user-friendly, socially responsible protocol. In contrast, Nostr, with its strong ties to the Bitcoin community and a focus on anti-censorship, appeals to a more niche market of 800k to 1.3 million users. Both platforms face unique hurdles: Bluesky with its need for more inclusive moderation policies, and Nostr with the challenge of expanding its user base beyond crypto-enthusiasts and those disenfranchised by other platforms. The future of these platforms depends on their ability to innovate and adapt to the diverse needs and expectations of today’s digital citizens.
This essay explores the exhilarating sensation of joining new digital communities, drawing parallels to real-world experiences and crises, and unpacks the challenges of sustaining the initial utopian fervor amidst growth. It emphasizes the critical need for designing digital spaces that prioritize community control, collective ownership, and participatory governance. The narrative then shifts to the case study of Bluesky, a digital community grappling with scalability, shifting norms, and the need for effective governance. By championing community involvement in decision-making processes and citing the Design Justice movement as a viable model, the essay underscores the importance of collaborative problem-solving in maintaining the vitality of digital spaces.
