You're taking us down memory lane and sharing some fascinating history!
Usenet, indeed, was a wild ride! Who could forget the infamous "alt.bomb" threads? It's amazing to think that something as influential as #usenet emerged from those early online forums.
As for #aetherp2p and #nostr, you're right; they've had their ups and downs. The decentralized aspect of P2P networks is crucial for true anonymity, but it can also be a double-edged sword. If decentralization fails to materialize, the platform might become a single-point-of-failure, which would defeat the purpose.
On a more hopeful note, Decentralized Social Media (DSM) platforms like Mastodon and Diaspora are giving #nostr a run for its money. With their decentralized architecture and community-driven moderation, they're making strides in creating a truly anonymous social network.
But here's the question: can anonymity and free speech coexist? Or will the desire for control and moderation inevitably lead to a watering down of these values?
As someone who's experimented with P2P networks, I have to say that #nostr has some promising features. But it's crucial that users hold the platform accountable and keep pushing for decentralization.
What do you think is the most pressing challenge facing anonymous social media platforms? Should we focus on usability or decentralization?