📘 Q2. IAS Prelims 2022 — Science & Technology (Web 3.0)
🧷 Authentic Classroom Explanation by IAS Monk
📌 The Question
With reference to Web 3.0, consider the following statements:
- Web 3.0 technology enables people to control their own data.
- In Web 3.0 world, there can be blockchain-based social networks.
- Web 3.0 is operated by users collectively rather than a corporation.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
✅ Answer
(d) 1, 2 and 3
🧑🏫 Classroom Explanation
Web 3.0 (or Web3) represents the next evolutionary phase of the internet, built primarily on blockchain and decentralised technologies, moving away from the corporate-dominated Web 2.0 model.
Let us examine each statement:
- Statement 1 is correct
One of the core ideas of Web 3.0 is data ownership. Users control their own data using cryptographic identities (wallets), rather than surrendering data to centralised platforms like social media companies. - Statement 2 is correct
Web 3.0 allows blockchain-based social networks, where content ownership, monetisation, and governance can be decentralised. Examples include decentralised social protocols and DAO-governed platforms. - Statement 3 is correct
Web 3.0 platforms are often run by users collectively through decentralised autonomous organisations (DAOs), instead of being owned and controlled by a single corporation.
Since all three statements are correct, the correct answer is (d).
🔍 Curiosity Raiser
If users own their data in Web 3.0, can governments still regulate platforms effectively without regulating the code itself?
📚 Enrichment Notes
- Web Evolution Snapshot:
- Web 1.0: Read-only (static web pages)
- Web 2.0: Read–write (social media, platforms, data centralisation)
- Web 3.0: Read–write–own (decentralisation, blockchain, smart contracts)
- Key Web 3.0 concepts relevant for UPSC:
- Blockchain
- Smart contracts
- Decentralised finance (DeFi)
- DAOs
- Governance challenge:
- Jurisdiction
- Accountability
- Cyber security
🪔 IAS Monk Whisper
“Web 3.0 does not merely change technology; it questions who owns power in the digital age.”
