The disclosed embodiments relate to implementation of a syntax for altering one or more rules by which a blockchain may be modified wherein the software implementing each client of a blockchain network are programmed to be responsive to requests or directives to alter one or more rules by which blocks may be added to a blockchain responsive to transactions received for storage therein, the requests/directives being processed by the client as a transaction and added to the block in accordance with the current state of the operating rules, thereby adding a new rule or modifying an existing rule for subsequent operation of the client.