The shortest, but not clearest, version of the question I’m thinking about these days: 

Can a public be forked?

I can’t think of a single strong example. One branch always has an “alt” vibe and is acutely conscious of it.

Delver at contraptions.venkateshrao.com, running summerofprotocols.com, host of /gloom ☀️

what is a public?

evolution from hunter/gatherer to agrarian society seems like a fork, a distinct change in the culture tide

social designer / community-as-sensemaking is my jam ✨

interesting pastoral nomadism as a stop between HG and ag, sure

does a public imply majority?

But only one side remained a full-fledged public. HGs left behind turned into a set of fragmented marginal subcultures mostly. Pastoral nomad/ag fork might qualify though.