Bitcoin Core vs Knots: Why Developers Are Fighting Over a Coming Change - Ep. 918

In this episode of Unchained, Laura Shin hosts Chris Guida and Adam Back to discuss the Bitcoin Core versus Bitcoin Knots debate, focusing on the issue of spam on the Bitcoin blockchain. Adam defines spam and the attempts to fight it, while Chris defines storing data in the blockchain as spam because it competes with Bitcoin's intended use for payments. The discussion covers the history of OP RETURN, the impact of inscriptions, and the potential consequences of lifting the OP RETURN limit. They debate the effectiveness of filters, the sustainability of mining, and the risks of contentious hard forks. Chris advocates for a hostile stance toward spam, while Adam argues for a more pragmatic approach, considering economic incentives and potential counteractions by spammers.