Social consensus refers to a decision-making process that relies on the agreement and cooperation of blockchain nodes or network participants. It is an alternative or supplementary mechanism to traditional, primary consensus algorithms. Social consensus plays its most prominent role in governance models associated with [[Proof of Stake]] (PoS) systems or hybrid consensus mechanisms where stakeholder participation is inherent in consensus. In this frame, Decentralized Autonomous Organizations ([[DAOs]]) would be considered arbiters of social consensus for blockchain protocols. Situations where social consensus plays a role in protocol decision-making may include: 1. [[Inactivity Leak|Inactivity leaks]]: If there is an extended period without new blocks being confirmed due to power loss, upgrades, protocol bugs, network issues, or malicious behavior that impedes block validation, social consensus can help determine appropriate actions to restore normal operation. Here, social consensus is effectively a failover mechanism beyond the core protocol, leveraged when primary consensus fails. 2. [[Forks|Fork]] Resolution: If two or more equally long chains persist for an extended period of time due to temporary network disruptions or other factors, participants might engage in discussions and signaling mechanisms to collectively decide which chain should become the main one. 3. Protocol Upgrades: During major upgrades that require hard forks or changes in rulesets within a PoW system, developers and stakeholders may rely on social consensus for determining upgrade paths and gaining community support. 4. Broader Governance Decisions: Social consensus plays a crucial role in decentralized governance models by allowing participants to discuss and vote on important decisions related to protocol upgrades, parameter adjustments, funding allocation, etc. While these scenarios involve elements of human coordination and agreement beyond pure computational validation, they are not strictly necessary for day-to-day operation of a core protocol.