Bitcoin as Digital Latin: Asymptotic Ossification and the End of Semantic Drift

This comparison is drawn from the characteristic stability of dead languages, which, unlike living languages, do not undergo semantic drift. Semantic drift can lead to the alteration of meanings over time due to various factors, undermining the reliability and functionality of long-term agreements. In the realm of Bitcoin, this stability is seen as paramount for ensuring that the cryptocurrency remains a trustless and immutable financial infrastructure for future generations. The ongoing development phase, characterized by improvements and debates, is recognized as necessary but unsustainable if Bitcoin is to serve as a foundational layer for future financial systems.

The strategy proposed to achieve this state of immutability in Bitcoin's protocol is referred to as "asymptotic ossification." This approach advocates for a gradual reduction in the potential for subjective interpretation and change, making any future modifications an extremely high-cost, legitimacy-bound decision. Changes motivated by political or preferential reasons would be nearly impossible, while modifications to address critical vulnerabilities or existential threats would still be allowed. This ensures that Bitcoin can adapt to survive without compromising its apolitical stance and focus on executing its protocol reliably.

Layer separation is highlighted as a crucial architectural principle in achieving "Digital Latin." Once Bitcoin's base layer has become an unchangeable substrate, innovation and development can proceed unimpeded at higher layers (Layer 2 and beyond). These layers can evolve to meet user demands, explore new technologies, and adapt to cultural shifts without affecting the integrity of the underlying protocol. This model allows for infinite experimentation and growth within the ecosystem while preserving the core qualities that make Bitcoin unique: trustlessness and immutability.

The importance of maintaining stability in Bitcoin's lower layers is underscored by concerns among Lightning Network (LN) operators regarding changes that could lead to chain splits and contentious forks. Such events pose significant financial risks to LN operators due to the potential for material losses stemming from channel closures across divergent chains. Consequently, LN operators are likely to resist changes that do not offer substantial increases in fee earnings to offset these risks. The narrative suggests a cautious approach to consensus changes within the Bitcoin community, emphasizing the need to safeguard the network's stability and the interests of key economic stakeholders like LN node operators.