Definition ∞ A logarithmic stake model is a design where a participant’s influence or reward in a network does not increase proportionally with their staked amount, but rather at a diminishing rate. This model applies a logarithmic function to the staked value, meaning larger stakes yield progressively smaller marginal increases in power or returns. It aims to mitigate the concentration of power by reducing the advantage of extremely wealthy participants. This design promotes broader participation and decentralization.
Context ∞ News and academic discussions often address logarithmic stake models in the context of proof-of-stake consensus mechanisms, where they are proposed as a method to counter wealth centralization and enhance network security. Proponents argue it makes the system more resistant to attack by reducing the incentive for single actors to accumulate vast amounts of stake. Its implementation seeks to foster a more equitable distribution of influence within decentralized governance structures.