Solarpunk and Lunarpunk: The Dualism of Web3

Transparency and darkness. Order and chaos. Two "cryptopunk" movements compared to understand and integrate the path toward the next human evolution.

Technology has already laid the groundwork for a social and cultural human revolution, but today we are stuck in a transitional limbo that could last for several more decades. In this liminal space, various ideas and approaches are emerging to prepare for humanity's possible future paths.

Some view technology as a liberating force, capable of solving humanity's complex problems, building a more just and sustainable world, and reaching a higher evolutionary stage; others see it as a weapon to protect against looming threats like mass surveillance, control and censorship, and domination by the powers that govern our world.

These contrasting views have given rise to cultural movements that reflect different perspectives on the potential of technology.

Regarding new digital technologies like cryptocurrencies, we have today three distinct visions and approaches:

• Cypherpunk

• Solarpunk

• Lunarpunk

Beyond the Cypherpunk movement

The Cypherpunk movement is undoubtedly the most well-known among those interested in these topics.

It is a movement that emerged in the 1990s among those concerned with the impact of cryptography and the Internet on society, with a strong individualistic vision focused on the "do-it-yourself" approach to developing and using cryptographic solutions for online privacy. The Cypherpunk movement is not strictly tied to the cryptocurrency space, but over time, Cypherpunk ideals have also found their place in this sector.

If you want to know more about the Cypherpunk movement, read here:

The Cyberspace Doctrines that you need to know

As for the other two movements, they are much more recent and completely focused on the Web3 and cryptocurrencies space.

Web3 as the Architecture of a New World

Before exploring the Solarpunk and Lunarpunk ideologies, it's important to understand the concept of Web3. It represents the next evolution of the Internet, built on decentralized technologies like public blockchains.

Unlike systems centered around a single cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin, Web3 is a broader ecosystem composed of projects, companies, and communities working to redefine the cyberspace. Its goal is to give individuals greater control over their data, identities, and interactions.

While cryptocurrencies play a significant role—partly due to speculation—they are only one piece of the puzzle. Web3 also includes initiatives focused on Self-Sovereign Identity, decentralized governance models like DAOs (Decentralized Autonomous Organizations), and various technologies designed to reshape digital autonomy and ownership.

Solarpunk, the Techno-Optimists of the Web3

The Solarpunk movement embodies a utopian vision where technology and nature coexist in perfect harmony. It envisions a near future where human ingenuity has ushered in a post-capitalist Golden Age, a world driven by innovation, sustainability, and social equity. In this paradigm, harmony and order are not just aspirations but foundational principles.

Applied to the Web3 ecosystem, Solarpunk is a techno-optimist philosophy that sees decentralized technologies as tools for creating a more just and inclusive society. Solarpunks believe in an orderly and transparent digital revolution, one that empowers individuals while maintaining a structured and cooperative framework.