You’re right — you don’t need zaps to post your thoughts. I don’t think many of us post on Nostr because we expect zaps. We do it because we genuinely want to.

And you’re also spot on when you say, “Why would I want to read someone’s thoughts if they’re only posting because they’re getting paid?” That’s a key difference between Nostr and centralized platforms.

On traditional social media, algorithms push content from people posting because they’re being paid — either directly or through the attention economy. On Nostr, you only see content from people you choose to follow.

What makes zapping powerful is the proof-of-work behind it. "Liking" something on centralized platforms is more like a proof-of-stake system — no real energy is transferred, but those with the biggest stake get all the rewards.

Zapping is different. When you zap someone on Nostr, you’re literally sending them real digital energy — actual value. It’s a tiny act, but with real weight.

I think zapping changes the game. The ability to send monetary value instantly, at virtually no cost, and without asking anyone’s permission — all within a social protocol — is revolutionary.

I’m especially excited for when we can require a small fee to call or message someone’s npub. That alone could kill spam. Instead of your attention being monetized by others, people will have to pay you for it.

I might be wrong — but I think zapping is a big deal. We just haven’t uncovered all the reasons why yet.