As the U.S. gears up for a contentious presidential election, a radical idea is gaining traction among a new breed of tech entrepreneurs: the concept of “network states.” Spearheaded by figures like Balaji Srinivasan, this movement envisions a future where individuals can choose their citizenship like a gym membership—essentially trading traditional nation-states for corporate-run city-states.
At a recent conference in Amsterdam, Srinivasan proposed that if tech can disrupt industries like finance and media, why not government? His vision is of communities forming online, eventually acquiring land and creating their own physical nations, complete with distinct laws and regulations.
While some see this as a dystopian endeavor, critics argue that the network state model reflects a neo-colonial ambition, replacing elected officials with corporate rulers driven by profit. The concept echoes historical instances where corporations held disproportionate power over governments, like the United Fruit Company in Guatemala.
Among those championing this new form of governance is Dryden Brown, co-founder of a project called Praxis, which promises a city-state governed by blockchain principles. His vision, however, raises questions: Who will manage essential services like healthcare? What will happen to democracy?
The movement has garnered attention, not just for its ambitious goals but for its cultural underpinnings. Events like the Praxis magazine launch blend elements of alt-right aesthetics with a fascination for heroism and “vitality.” Guests at these gatherings include individuals who flirt with ideas of corporate monarchy, suggesting a world where corporate dictators reign supreme.
As these “crypto bros” venture into the realm of governance, we must grapple with the implications. Is this the future of citizenship, or merely a fringe fantasy? As political instability looms in the U.S., the network state movement stands poised to challenge the very foundations of democracy.

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