Proof-of-Social-Capital: Privacy-Preserving Consensus Protocol Replacing Stake for Social Capital

Consensus protocols used today in blockchains often rely on computational power or financial stakes - scarce resources. We propose a novel protocol using social capital - trust and influence from social interactions - as a non-transferable staking mechanism to ensure fairness and decentralization. The methodology integrates zero-knowledge proofs, verifiable credentials, a Whisk-like leader election, and an incentive scheme to prevent Sybil attacks and encourage engagement. The theoretical framework would enhance privacy and equity, though unresolved issues like off-chain bribery require further research. This work offers a new model aligned with modern social media behavior and lifestyle, with applications in finance, providing a practical insight for decentralized system development.

@article{mariani2025_2505.12144,
  title={ Proof-of-Social-Capital: Privacy-Preserving Consensus Protocol Replacing Stake for Social Capital },
  author={ Juraj Mariani and Ivan Homoliak },
  journal={arXiv preprint arXiv:2505.12144},
  year={ 2025 }
}