Is Blockchain Actually Any… Good?

Blockchain technology is a very promising disruptive technology with the potential to address problems that afflict our society, making it more inclusive, fair, and resilient. However, on the other hand, there are some notorious cases of using blockchain-based cryptocurrencies for money laundering, human trafficking, and financing criminal activities. The current paper commences a research effort aiming to better understand how blockchains can be used for good. The goal is to develop a conceptual framework based on a literature review covering the Blockchain for Good (B4G) domain. The main steps of the research process are presented and discussed in the paper. The proposed framework will illustrate the complex and multifaceted role of blockchain in improving social welfare, and it will be useful in guiding research efforts, formulating actionable advice, and promoting the B4G domain.