Bitcoin, from Fantasy to Fiasco

Guest: Emrah Irzik, sociologist (PhD, Central European University) 

Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies are ridiculous, but they are ridiculous in highly interesting and informative ways. In the work presented, the phenomenon of Bitcoin is subjected to a comprehensive empirical analysis and a theoretical critique that cut through the technobabble and ideology built around it by invested actors and extremists. Contrary to popular claims to being a decentralized form of money that eliminates financial intermediaries, Bitcoin is revealed to be a centralized, purely speculative pseudo-asset that has created new financial intermediaries. 

We will use this as an excuse to refresh our understanding of different forms of money and looking at the trajectory of “actually existing Bitcoin” will provide insights into how capitalism works and the absolute state of neoclassical economic theory. The talk is accessible to a general audience who does not mind having fun while staying poor, no IT expertise required. 

Date: June 16, 18:00

Location: Dostoievski str., nr. 34 – 36, room 7