On-Chain Conflict

Definition ∞ On-chain conflict refers to a disagreement or dispute that occurs and is resolved directly on a blockchain network. This can involve contested transactions, governance proposals that divide a community, or disputes over smart contract execution. The resolution mechanisms are typically embedded within the protocol’s rules or handled through decentralized governance processes. These conflicts highlight the self-executing and immutable nature of blockchain operations.
Context ∞ On-chain conflicts are often featured in crypto news when major protocol upgrades, governance votes, or significant technical disagreements arise within a blockchain community. Discussions frequently address the effectiveness of decentralized governance models in resolving these disputes and the potential for hard forks. Understanding these conflicts provides insight into the social and technical dynamics that shape the evolution and stability of decentralized networks.