Definition ∞ Universal properties refer to fundamental characteristics or attributes that are consistently present across a broad class of systems or mathematical structures. In the context of blockchain, these might include immutability, censorship resistance, and decentralization, which are often considered inherent to the technology’s core design. Recognizing these properties helps define the scope and potential of decentralized applications. They represent foundational aspects of a system’s behavior.
Context ∞ Discussions about universal properties frequently appear in academic and technical crypto news, particularly when evaluating the design principles and long-term viability of new blockchain protocols. Debates often center on how well a particular network upholds these properties, especially as scalability solutions or governance models are introduced. Maintaining these core attributes is critical for preserving the value proposition of decentralized systems.