Social Primitives

Definition ∞ Social primitives are fundamental building blocks or basic functions within a digital system that enable core social interactions, identity management, and community formation. These are the underlying mechanisms that allow users to connect, communicate, and establish relationships online. They serve as the foundational elements upon which more complex social applications are constructed. These primitives shape how digital communities function.
Context ∞ In the Web3 ecosystem, social primitives refer to decentralized protocols and smart contracts that empower users with greater control over their data, online identity, and social graphs. This approach aims to reduce reliance on centralized platforms by allowing individuals to own their digital relationships and content. News often discusses innovations in decentralized identity and social graph protocols, which are redefining how digital communities are built and governed. This shift represents a significant change in the architecture of online social interaction.