(Data) Mining the Ethereum Open-Source Development Community

Abstract

The successful operation of a blockchain system crucially relies on its management of software development activities. Not only does the technological functionality of a blockchain system depend on the quality of its source code, but also the “neutrality” of a blockchain system depends on access to and control over its source code. In this paper, we delve into the dynamic evolution of collaboration within the open-source developer community of Ethereum, a leading blockchain platform today. Utilizing network analysis techniques, we demonstrate the tendency of initially decentralized open-source communities to gravitate toward local modular structures. Additionally, our analysis reveals that inputs to the blockchain’s software code are concentrated among a small group of contributors. Our findings have implications for the managers of decentralized open-source technology and policymakers who aim to preserve impartial access to technology.