Glad you are not being too quick to jump on either side of this, I do have some thoughts about your thoughts though.
Thoughts 5: wait, "social contract" is not a legal term (see wikipedia) that can be used for a corporation. And are there any legal documents stating above?
Does it really matter whether or not this was a legally binding statement? Its not like the witnesses are legally required to recognize the ninja-mined funds.
Both of these things are essentially social contracts.
RE: My understanding and thoughts regarding this ongoing witness battle