cryptodaily.co.uk
Amid the ongoing debate over the geopolitical implications of Bitcoin, a graduate thesis by U.S. Space Force major Jason Lowery has emerged on top-selling lists and categories on Amazon's books.
Lowery's academic research, conducted during a six-month Department of Defense-sponsored fellowship at MIT, resulted in "Softwar: A Novel Theory on Power Projection and the National Strategic Significance of Bitcoin."
Lowery's "Power Projection Theory" proposes that Bitcoin could be leveraged by military powers as a non-lethal means of imposing restrictions on bad actors. The theory suggests that the proof-of-work system that underpins Bitcoin transaction verification could be used to demand significant computational work from adversaries.
However, this groundbreaking idea raises concerns about the U.S. government's imperialist intrusions and neoliberal agenda, particularly towards developing nations. Lowery asserts that insufficient Bitcoin reserves held by the U.S. government could jeopardize national security if (on the condition that it does not follow through or is not considered for implementation) the network is used as a cyber-security tool.
The U.S. government's recent sale of $215 million in seized Bitcoin, announced shortly after Lowery's thesis was published, highlights the potential disconnect between his views and the government's approach.
It is crucial to evaluate the broader implications of Lowery's thesis in the context of the U.S. government's ongoing interventions in developing countries. The potential to use Bitcoin as a means of exerting power over adversaries could further aggravate the power imbalance between developed and developing nations, exacerbating existing geopolitical tensions.
While "Softwar" includes a disclaimer that the paper does not reflect any official position held by the Department of Defense, Air Force, or MIT, it still managed to secure a significant readership on Amazon, frequently holding the number one spot in the digital currencies category and ranking second in both technology and engineering books. The book has received a majority of five-star ratings from over 200 Amazon readers, but some have criticized it for "too much wishful thinking," with "arguments based on opinion," and distracting quotes from "The Matrix."
As the conversation around Bitcoin and crypto in general's geopolitical role continues, it is essential to consider the potential impact of Lowery's theory on global power dynamics.
While the U.S. government's current stance on Bitcoin reserves may not align with Lowery's views, what with the ongoing regulatory extremes that the SEC with Gary Gensler behind it, the ongoing debate raises urgent questions about the responsible use of cryptocurrencies in a world grappling with the repercussions of a powerful nation attempting control emerging technologies and leveraging these towards dominance.
Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. It is not offered or intended to be used as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.