Author: Michael J. Casey
Release Date: October 22, 2018
Abstract:
A new phenomenon—initial coin offerings—enabled through blockchain technology is upending basic tenets of 20th century capitalism. This project studies the development and ramification of the emerging token economy, its viability, and the legal and policy ramifications in terms of securities law and property rights.
Amid ongoing reports of surveillance, censorship, and massive hacking of data, this research explores how distributed ledger technology can address the challenges of the World Wide Web. The authors argue that blockchain can support the Internet’s founding ideals, decentralize the Internet, and restore the balance of power between individuals and large organizations. They focus on three big issues: open access, fair participation, and the recovery of the individual sovereignty as users. The authors interviewed such experts as Sir Tim Berners-Lee, Joseph Lubin of Consensus Systems, Shane Greenstein of Harvard Business School, Rouven Heck of uPort, and Ethan Buchman of Tendermint. It is an important work on the most critical issues facing democracy and free societies everywhere.
Read MoreRare is the case study that clearly lays out a plan of action for government officials serious about improving their services. Anthony Williams explores how blockchain can simplify and improve government efficiency in Canada by providing a single digital ledger for all accounts. He assesses the current general ledger system, compares it with best practices in Estonia, Sweden, and the United States, and proposes a blockchain-based solution. His analysis is not cheerleading; it is clear-headed. He lays out the relevant challenges and implementation costs including managing risk and connecting with existing policies and procedures. Canada has an opportunity to model the future of government.
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