Derek Ross, a prominent figure in the Bitcoin community, has been vocal about his support for Nostr, a revolutionary communication platform that he believes is the foundation of a more open internet. Ross, who is the co-founder of the Grow Nostr Initiative and also involved in developer relations for Soapbox.pub, sees Nostr as a crucial component in the world of decentralized communication.
In a recent interview, Ross emphasized the symbiotic relationship between Bitcoin and Nostr, referring to them as the orange pill and the purple pill, respectively. He frequently uses the phrase, “The purple pill helps the orange pill go down,” to highlight the complementary nature of the two technologies.
During the BTCHel Bitcoin conference in Helsinki, Finland, Ross reiterated his passion for Nostr and its potential to transform the way we communicate online. He even managed to convince Samuel Kullman, MP of the Swiss Canton Bern, to join Nostr after a breakfast meeting post-conference.
One of the key points Ross made during the conference was the idea that Bitcoin represents freedom of money, while Nostr represents freedom of communication. This distinction underscores the crucial role that decentralized communication platforms play in an increasingly interconnected world.
When asked why more Bitcoiners are not actively using Nostr, Ross pointed to the platform’s current limitations and the allure of more established social media platforms like Twitter. However, he believes that true Bitcoin enthusiasts should embrace Nostr for its commitment to freedom and decentralization.
Ross also highlighted the example of Lyn Alden, who successfully balances her presence on both Twitter and Nostr, showcasing the versatility of the platform for personal and professional use.
Despite the slow uptake of Nostr within the Bitcoin community, Ross remains optimistic about its potential. He views Nostr as a vital tool for building a more open and decentralized internet, and he encourages others to embrace the platform’s ethos of freedom and privacy.
In conclusion, Derek Ross’s advocacy for Nostr as a key player in the future of online communication highlights the importance of decentralized platforms in a world dominated by centralized social media giants. As Nostr continues to evolve and grow, it has the potential to usher in a new era of digital freedom and connectivity.

