Non-algorithmic governance mechanisms of blockchain-based decentralized applications: Evidence from multiple cases
研究通过七个去中心化金融应用的案例分析，发现尽管区块链技术承诺去中心化，但人类驱动的过程（如领导角色、社区参与）可能重新引入中心化风险，并提出了一个强调人类驱动机制的治理框架。
The rise of Decentralized Applications (DApps) represents a significant shift in how digital services are developed and governed, utilizing blockchain technology to eliminate central oversight and facilitate peer-to-peer interactions. While blockchain's algorithmic governance mechanisms are designed to enforce transparency and decentralization, human-driven processes—such as leadership roles, community engagement, and social norms—continue to play a pivotal role in shaping governance outcomes. This study investigates how these non-algorithmic factors influence the decentralization of DApp governance. Through a multiple case study of seven Decentralized Finance DApps, we analyze the governance structures, decision-making processes, and power dynamics at play. Our findings reveal that, despite the technological promise of decentralization, human-driven processes can reintroduce centralization risks, impacting inclusivity and decision-making. We propose an integrated governance framework that emphasizes human-driven mechanisms, contributing to the discourse on the practical realities of decentralized governance in DApps. The study offers theoretical and empirical insights into how decentralization is enacted and challenged in blockchain-based ecosystems. • Human-driven processes in DApps governance can reintroduce centralization risks despite tech promises. • Proposes an integrated framework emphasizing human-driven governance to address limits of algorithms. • Core teams often retain major decision power, impacting decentralization and creating power imbalances. • Misaligned incentives hinder participation, concentrating power and affecting DApps' decentralization.