On-Chain Censorship

Definition ∞ On-Chain Censorship occurs when transactions or data submitted to a blockchain are intentionally prevented from being included in a block by validators or miners. This can happen if a centralizing entity controls a significant portion of the network’s block production capacity. The ability to censor transactions directly contradicts the decentralized and permissionless ideals of many blockchain systems. It represents a threat to the network’s neutrality and accessibility.
Context ∞ On-chain censorship is a critical discussion point in crypto news, particularly concerning proof-of-stake blockchains where validator concentration can become an issue. Debates often focus on the effectiveness of voting mechanisms, voter participation rates, and the potential for concentrated power. The community frequently monitors metrics related to validator distribution and network decentralization to assess censorship resistance. Maintaining robust decentralization is considered a primary defense against such control.