A zero knowledge system for voting?

In summary, the conversation discusses a system of voting where no one can know what others have voted for. It involves a polynomial graph and requires a continuous representation, making it difficult to be implemented in society due to limitations of computers. The speaker is struggling to remember more details about this system.
  • #1
Appledave
14
0
My memory on this is a bit foggy, but a couple of years ago one my math professors had a digression about a system of voting where no one would be able to know what anyone else voted. It involved the graph of a polynomial, and the kicker was that this system couldn't be implemented in society because it needed a truly continuous representation of the graph, which computers aren't able to do. Does anyone know what system this is? It's been bugging me for quite a while now, but I just can't seem to remember anything else about it :S
 
Mathematics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Appledave said:
... a system of voting where no one would be able to know what anyone else voted ...
This is what is actually implemented in democracies. Nobody knows (for sure) what anybody else votes for.
 
  • #3
Quite sure OP was thinking about a way to do that cryptographically - in a way you could implement in a computer and do via the internet.
 

1. What is a zero knowledge system for voting?

A zero knowledge system for voting is a method of voting that allows individuals to cast their vote without revealing any personal information, such as their identity or who they voted for. It is designed to protect the privacy and anonymity of voters while still ensuring the accuracy and integrity of the voting process.

2. How does a zero knowledge system for voting work?

A zero knowledge system for voting uses advanced encryption and cryptographic techniques to allow voters to cast their vote without revealing any personal information. The system generates a unique code for each voter, which is used to verify their vote without linking it back to their identity. This ensures that the vote remains anonymous and cannot be traced back to the individual voter.

3. What are the benefits of a zero knowledge system for voting?

A zero knowledge system for voting offers several benefits, including enhanced privacy and anonymity for voters, increased trust in the voting process, and a reduced risk of fraud or tampering. It also allows for remote voting and potentially increases voter turnout, as individuals who may not be able to physically go to a polling station can still participate in the voting process.

4. Are there any potential drawbacks or limitations to a zero knowledge system for voting?

While a zero knowledge system for voting offers many benefits, there are also potential drawbacks and limitations. One potential concern is the complexity and technical nature of the system, which may make it difficult for some individuals to understand or trust. Additionally, the system may be susceptible to cyber attacks or errors, which could compromise the integrity of the voting process.

5. Is a zero knowledge system for voting currently being used?

There are some initiatives and experiments using zero knowledge systems for voting, but it is not widely used in mainstream elections yet. Some countries, such as Switzerland, have implemented small-scale trials of the system, but it has not been adopted on a large scale. However, with increasing concerns about privacy and security in the voting process, it is possible that we may see more widespread use of zero knowledge systems in the future.

Similar threads

  • Computing and Technology
Replies
2
Views
175
Replies
6
Views
1K
  • Sci-Fi Writing and World Building
2
Replies
56
Views
5K
  • Quantum Interpretations and Foundations
Replies
12
Views
890
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • Classical Physics
Replies
15
Views
2K
  • General Math
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
6
Views
1K
  • Linear and Abstract Algebra
Replies
4
Views
2K
Back
Top