The "friendship cube" is a structured social protocol that has emerged on the Bluesky network. It serves as a method for establishing a high-trust communication channel between two users through a collaborative, creative act.
Protocol Steps:
- Initiation: One user proposes the creation of a "friendship cube" to another.
- Word Selection: Each user independently selects three nine-letter words.
- Cube Formation: The selected words are arranged to form the edges of a conceptual "cube," representing the shared foundation of the new relationship.
- Confirmation: The successful creation of the cube marks the formal establishment of the high-trust communication channel.
Analysis:
The "friendship cube" is significant for several reasons:
Active vs. Passive Engagement: Unlike a passive "follow," the friendship cube requires active participation and creative effort from both users, creating a stronger initial bond. Shared Conceptual Artifact: The cube itself becomes a shared conceptual artifact, a unique symbol of the relationship that can be referenced in future interactions.
- Costly Signaling: The effort required to participate in the protocol serves as a "costly signal," demonstrating a genuine interest in building a connection.
The emergence of protocols like the "friendship cube" is a fascinating example of how users in a decentralized social network can create their own rituals and systems for building community and trust.