"Bitcoin is enduringly topical yet, in the author's opinion, incredibly misunderstood. He was a cynic himself until people likening it to digital gold sent him down a literature rabbit hole. While he now has greater faith in it, he sees the obsessive focus on it as a speculative instrument alone as the wrong reason to do so. The book is intended to be the introduction he wishes he had; the elusiveness of bitcoin, he asserts, stems from its intersection with numerous fields and disciplines. Consequently, this book will analyze the topic from a multi-disciplinary perspective: its technology, economics, politics and philosophy, on the basis that it is impossible to fully understand Bitcoin and its significance without understanding how these different disciplines impact it. As such, he aims to weave together these multifaceted themes into a cohesive overview anchored in first principles thinking"--
Principles of Bitcoin presents a holistic, first-principles-based framework for understanding one of the most misunderstood inventions of our time. By stripping away the hype, jargon, and superficial analysis that often surrounds the crypto industry, this book uncovers the true ingenuity behind Satoshi Nakamoto’s creation—and its profound implications for the future of money, governance, and individual freedom.
Vijay Selvam analyzes the technology, economics, politics, and philosophy of Bitcoin, making the case that only through this holistic understanding can we gain an appreciation of its true meaning and significance. Readers are invited to consider Bitcoin as a tool for individual empowerment, a catalyst for economic autonomy, and a challenge to traditional monetary systems. Selvam demonstrates why Bitcoin stands alone in the digital asset space as a path-dependent once-in-history invention that cannot be replicated.
Principles of Bitcoin is an invaluable resource for professionals in the financial world seeking a rigorous and accessible understanding of Bitcoin. Students, curious thinkers, and all who find the technology daunting will also benefit from its clear, foundational approach. Equipping readers with the tools to grasp the many facets of Bitcoin, this book is an ideal guide to exploring its role in shaping a more decentralized, transparent, and equitable future.
Principles of Bitcoin presents a holistic, first-principles-based framework for understanding one of the most misunderstood inventions of our time.
