Proof of Humanity

Definition ∞ Proof of humanity is a mechanism designed to verify that an entity is a unique, living human being, distinct from automated accounts or bots. This process is essential for ensuring equitable distribution of resources, preventing Sybil attacks, and enabling fair governance in decentralized systems. It establishes a verifiable link between a digital identity and a singular human individual.
Context ∞ Proof of humanity is a subject of increasing interest in discussions surrounding decentralized governance and equitable resource allocation within Web3. News reports may cover projects implementing such mechanisms for universal basic income distribution, fair airdrops, or secure voting in decentralized autonomous organizations. Debates often focus on the technical challenges, inclusivity, and potential for manipulation in these systems.