The internet's ability to resist centralized control over information became apparent in the mid-to-late 2000s with the downfall of the combined TimeWarner and AOL giant. This was mainly due to the internet's design, which didn't easily bow down to monopolies, unlike traditional mediums. However, the growing dominance of content and search platforms raises concerns about their impact on culture, social aspects, and content freedom.

Big social media platforms gather loads of user data, sparking worries about privacy and leading CEOs to testify before Congress. Recent news about Facebook's expansion into a payment network has only heightened worries about the extent of data in their possession. The looming threat of censorship by tech giants is gaining attention. Could decentralized content sharing be the answer to demands for improved privacy and freedom of expression online?

Numerous projects are striving towards this goal, as history shows that innovation usually thrives in a competitive environment born from decentralization. YouTube and Netflix owe much of their success to the groundbreaking innovation of BitTorrent in peer-to-peer file sharing, allowing them to reach vast audiences and rake in substantial ad revenue. However, decentralized content sharing may disrupt their models in due course.

While the idea of 'decentralize everything' often championed in cryptocurrency circles may not always align with reality, decentralization can yield positive outcomes when applied correctly. For example, when information is channeled through a select few platforms like YouTube, Google, and Netflix, creativity becomes limited. These platforms have censored content to appease advertisers, curtailed what content reaches audiences, and, in the case of Google, are developing a censored search engine for China.

Limiting content in such ways might not seem significant in the short term, but it could stifle innovation and creativity in the long run. Consider the rise of independent filmmaking: Although major studio films like Avengers dominate the box office, independent films from festivals like Sundance can also find success, challenging the prior dominance of studio conglomerates.

The push towards decentralization for content sharing is gaining momentum, especially amid concerns about privacy and artistic freedom. New initiatives aim to reshape how content is shared, moving away from concentrated control towards more accessible and resilient distribution channels. Ultimately, the future of content distribution remains uncertain, but advancements in technology and a growing demand for digital privacy point towards a decentralized path ahead.