A Progressive View of Bitcoin with Margot Paez - WBD478

Margot Paez is a Fellow at the Bitcoin Policy Institute
specialising in Renewable Energy and Environmental Studies. In
this interview, we discuss the Occupy movement, a broken
capitalist system, and a pragmatic approach to our energy future.


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Bitcoin is often labelled as being a currency for libertarians.
But, it is increasingly clear that Bitcoin appeals to a wide
range of people with a myriad of political leanings. This
includes a growing number of progressives who see in the protocol
a means of enabling a fairer and less economically stratified
society.


That Bitcoin appeals to such disparate communities speaks to both
the strength of Bitcoin, but also the weakness of the current
system. If those on both the right and left are disenchanted with
the status quo, that is obviously a strong signal that a major
societal change is warranted. Further, it means we have to assess
why we’re so polarised if we fundamentally agree with each other.


There is a debate to be had regarding language, labels,
unconscious bias, and manipulation of opinions. The issue is that
these false divisions are affecting reasoned consideration of all
the major issues affecting modern civilisation, particularly in
relation to climate change.


The practical implication is that both sides of the climate
change debate are resistant to effective and pragmatic measures.
Is it possible to view these issues without a political lens?