No, it wouldn't be the same at all.
- Brave ads don't track users and violate their privacy.
- Users can earn BAT by viewing ads, which they can then use to support their favorite sites directly.
- Brave ads are opt-in. If you fund your BAT wallet externally, you can disable ads altogether while still supporting the sites you visit. This is the crucial step which allows eliminating the advertising middleman altogether.
Please read more about how BAT works.
> As with the other comment, sure you could do it with blockchain but theres often better solutions.
Better in what way? DNS is technically decentralized, but it's effectively controlled by ICANN and large registrars. Companies own entire sets of gTLDs, and the most popular resolvers are operated by large corporations. Only 13 root name servers resolve queries the entire internet depends on. This system is susceptible to hijacking.
Parts of this are related to registrations, and parts are operational. I'm not saying that the blockchain is the answer to all these problems, but it's a step in the right direction that opens the door to further discussion.
> The fundamental problem is people still have to deal with fiat money. that conversion always carries a fee.
So? That's out of scope for what this technology can help with. Besides, there are stores and entire marketplaces where only crypto is exchanged.
Sorry, but these are all lazy dismissals.
To be fair, there are valid issues that should be addressed with these technologies, but nothing will be done if the conversation is stopped in its tracks at the first mention of bad words.
It reminds me of the discussions around nuclear power. It is perceived so negatively by the public that its use is being abandoned, yet it has a large benefit potential if used correctly. Cryptocurrencies don't carry nearly as much risk, yet are popularly vilified because it feels good to jump on the hate bandwagon, rather than honestly discuss their merits. I expect better from forums like this.