Honest User Assumption

Definition ∞ The honest user assumption is a foundational premise in the design of many decentralized systems, particularly blockchains. It posits that a sufficient majority of network participants will act honestly and adhere to protocol rules, even if malicious actors exist. This assumption is crucial for the security and integrity of consensus mechanisms, such as Proof of Work or Proof of Stake. The system’s resilience depends on this behavioral expectation for its proper operation.
Context ∞ The honest user assumption is frequently discussed in crypto news when evaluating the security and decentralization claims of various blockchain networks. Debates often question the validity of this assumption under extreme economic or adversarial conditions. Concerns arise regarding potential centralization risks if a majority of participants could collude. Protocol upgrades and economic incentive adjustments are often designed to reinforce this assumption and prevent attacks.