In the world of Bitcoin, conviction is not merely a belief but a deep understanding rooted in education and exploration. It is a journey that begins with learning and never truly ends—a voyage through the realms of economics, technology, philosophy, and beyond. Bitcoin, the decentralized digital currency and the underlying technology, has captured the imagination of many, and for those seeking to grow their conviction as a "Bitcoiner," the key lies in continuous education.
The Foundation of Bitcoin Education
Bitcoin is not about investing or trading—it's about understanding a fundamental shift in how we perceive and interact with money, technology, and society. This journey often starts with books that serve as pillars of knowledge.
"The Bitcoin Standard" by Saifedean Ammous is a timeless exploration of Bitcoin's economic implications, drawing from history to illuminate the significance of a sound monetary system. It delves into the role of money in society and explains why Bitcoin's scarcity and decentralization make it a revolutionary force.
"Mastering Bitcoin" by Andreas M. Antonopoulos is a technical masterpiece, offering a comprehensive guide to the nuts and bolts of the Bitcoin protocol. Understanding how Bitcoin works at a technical level is crucial for developing a strong conviction in its capabilities.
"The Internet of Money" series by Antonopoulos is a collection of talks that beautifully explain the philosophical underpinnings of Bitcoin. It goes beyond the technical aspects, exploring the impact of Bitcoin on society, governance, and personal freedom.
High-Signal Podcasts: Rabbit Hole Recap, Citadel Dispatch, and Bitcoin Fortress
Podcasts have become a vital source of information and community in the Bitcoin space. "Rabbit Hole Recap" is a deep dive into the week's most important Bitcoin news and events, offering insightful analysis and commentary.
"Citadel Dispatch" provides a live, interactive forum for Bitcoiners to discuss the latest developments, technology, and ideas shaping freedom tech, including Bitcoin and Nostr among others.
And of course, "Bitcoin Fortress" stands as a beacon of education and inspiration, offering weekly Top Bitcoin News and insights into the broader implications of Bitcoin.
Wisdom from Bitcoin Advocates
Michael Saylor, the CEO of MicroStrategy and a prominent Bitcoin advocate, emphasizes the importance of Bitcoin education. He often speaks about how understanding Bitcoin's principles can lead to a profound shift in one's perception of money and value.
As Saylor puts it, "Bitcoin is not just a currency; it's a bank in cyberspace, a fortress of value. Understanding this is the first step to truly grasping its potential." I recently discovered this gem - three hours of Michael Saylor riffing on Life and Bitcoin:
Other notable Bitcoin advocates echo this sentiment, stressing that involvement with Bitcoin begins and ends with education. It is through learning that one can develop the conviction to withstand the inevitable volatility and uncertainty in the market.
The Rabbit Holes of Bitcoin Education
What sets Bitcoin apart is its ability to open doors to a myriad of disciplines. A Bitcoin education often leads to delving into "rabbit holes" of knowledge such as:
Cryptography: Understanding the cryptographic principles that underpin Bitcoin's security.
Economics: Particularly Austrian Economics, which aligns closely with Bitcoin's principles of sound money. More on that here:
Health and Fitness: Recognizing the impact of lifestyle choices on well-being, including the quality of food consumed.
Technology Development: Exploring the innovations in blockchain technology and its potential applications.
Digital Privacy: Grasping the importance of privacy in an increasingly digital world.
Philosophy: Reflecting on the ethical implications of a decentralized currency.
History: Drawing parallels between past monetary systems and the rise of Bitcoin. This is where you begin thinking about the Roman Empire:
Regulation, Security, Self-Defense: Navigating the legal landscape, securing digital assets, and understanding personal security and safety.
Game Theory: Analyzing the incentives and behaviors within the Bitcoin network.
Social Impact and Spirituality: Considering how Bitcoin can empower individuals and communities, fostering a sense of sovereignty and purpose.
Conclusion: A Lifetime Journey of Learning
In conclusion, the path to growing conviction as a Bitcoiner is paved with education, exploration, and a thirst for knowledge. It is a journey that transcends mere financial gains, leading to a deeper understanding of money, technology, and the world at large.
As we delve into the depths of Bitcoin's principles, we find ourselves drawn into a world of interconnected disciplines, each shedding light on different facets of this revolutionary technology. This journey is not a sprint but a marathon—a lifelong pursuit of wisdom and understanding.
So, whether you're diving into "The Bitcoin Standard," tuning into "Bitcoin Fortress," or pondering the words of Michael Saylor, remember that every bit of knowledge gained strengthens your conviction as a Bitcoiner. Embrace the rabbit holes, for they are gateways to a richer understanding of the world we live in—and the world that Bitcoin is shaping.
In the end, being a Bitcoiner is not just about owning Bitcoin—it's about being part of a movement towards a more transparent, equitable, and decentralized future. And it all begins with the willingness to learn, to explore, and to grow.
Not financial or legal advice, for entertainment only, do your own homework. I hope you find this post useful as you chart your personal financial course and Build a Bitcoin Fortress in 2024.  Â
Thanks for following my work. Always remember: freedom, health and positivity! Â
Please also check out my Bitcoin Fortress Podcast on all your favorite streaming platforms. I do a weekly Bitcoin news update every week on current items of interest to the Bitcoin community, usually 30 to 60 minutes depending on the number of topics to cover. Please check it out if you haven’t already. Also now on Fountain, where you can earn Bitcoin just for listening to your favorite podcasts.
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Lightning tips appreciated here.
You're not a Fortress, you are an EVANGELIST!
Keep up the excellent work.
But may I suggest to keep a vigilant eye on what I consider a THREAT to Bitcoin freedom: 100s of billions of fiat American dollars and now Chinese fiat yuan (brrrrrr) invested in spot Bitcoin ETFs.
Let's not forget that China has already rolled out its CBDC e-yaun along with its social credit system and social control system and has reached more than 50% forced/coherced adoption rate.
That's not to say we should stop our faith in the only alternative to slavery and tyranny but just to mention that, in my modest opinion, there are obscure forces trying to control the DeFi.
You're not a Fortress, you are an EVANGELIST!
Keep up the excellent work.
But may I suggest to keep a vigilant eye on what I consider a THREAT to Bitcoin freedom: 100s of billions of fiat American dollars and now Chinese fiat yuan (brrrrrr) invested in spot Bitcoin ETFs.
Let's not forget that China has already rolled out its CBDC e-yaun along with its social credit system and social control system and has reached more than 50% forced/coherced adoption rate.
That's not to say we should stop our faith in the only alternative to slavery and tyranny but just to mention that, in my modest opinion, there are obscure forces trying to control the DeFi.