Key reads on Bitcoin, blockchain technology and economic principles

In today’s article, we bring you a curated list of key reads on Bitcoin, blockchain technology, and economic principles, providing a thorough overview of the cryptocurrency landscape and its underlying technology.

From accessible works like Cryptoassets by Burniske and Tatar to more in-depth analyses like The Bitcoin Standard by Ammous, each title offers unique insights into how these technologies are transforming the global economy. Also included are foundational texts on classical economics such as Adam Smith’s The Wealth of Nations and Carl Menger’s Principles of Political Economy, providing a theoretical foundation on the principles that underpin today’s economic landscape.

For those who want to delve deeper into the technical aspects, at the bottom of the list are the more advanced books, such as Mastering Bitcoin by Andreas M. Antonopoulos. Although Mastering Ethereum is somewhat outdated, it is still a valuable reference for understanding the basics of this platform. In addition, we recommend reading Satoshi Nakamoto’s Bitcoin Whitepaper, a key resource for directly understanding the principles behind bitcoin.

“Cryptoassets: The Innovative Investor’s Guide to Bitcoin and Beyond” – Chris Burniske and Jack Tatar (2017)

Published in 2017, Cryptoassets: The Innovative Investor’s Guide to Bitcoin and Beyond by Chris Burniske and Jack Tatar is an accessible and insightful guide to virtual assets, covering cryptocurrencies, cryptocommodities, and cryptotokens.

The book provides a balanced and well-structured overview of the world of virtual assets, covering both the evolution of bitcoin and the birth of other cryptocurrencies such as Ethereum, Ripple and Litecoin. 

Burniske and Tatar explain key concepts such as network effects and Metcalfe’s Law, which states that the value of a network grows exponentially with the number of users.

Although somewhat dated due to the rapid advancement of the sector, Cryptoassets provides a solid and accessible foundation for those seeking to understand this new asset class and consider its inclusion in an investment portfolio, all while remaining easy to read for non-native English speakers.

“The Age of Cryptocurrency: How Bitcoin and Digital Money are Challenging the Global Economic Order” – Paul Vigna and Michael J. Casey (2015)

Published in 2015, The Age of Cryptocurrency by Paul Vigna and Michael J. Casey, is an accessible and detailed introduction to the world of bitcoin and cryptocurrencies. The authors demystify the complex workings of these digital currencies, exploring both their origins and their impact on society and the global economy. Through an analysis that combines the technical side with reflections on the social implications, the book provides a solid foundation for understanding how these technologies are challenging the traditional economic order.

While the book may seem a bit dated today, it remains a relevant read for those seeking to understand the beginnings of cryptocurrencies. The final chapters highlight the history, key players, and community that shaped Bitcoin, as well as an overview of early altcoins.

In short, The Age of Cryptocurrency is an excellent starting point for those who want to delve into the digital economy and prepare for a future where paper money may become obsolete.

“Inventing Bitcoin: The Technology Behind The First Truly Scarce and Decentralized Money” – Yan Pritzker (2019)

Published in 2019, Inventing Bitcoin by Yan Pritzker is a clear and concise introduction to the technical workings of Bitcoin, ideal for beginners who want to understand the basics without getting into too much technical detail. Throughout its 100 pages, the author explains in a straightforward manner how Bitcoin was created, addressing step-by-step the problems that arose and how they were solved, making it a quick but deeply informative read.

This book is perfect for those who want to understand how the different pieces of the Bitcoin ecosystem fit together without getting lost in the technical details. Pritzker manages to simplify complex concepts without sacrificing the depth necessary for readers to understand both the “how” and “why” of how Bitcoin works.

Highly recommended as a first read for those new to Bitcoin, Inventing Bitcoin also serves as an excellent introduction to more advanced books on the subject, helping readers build a solid foundation before delving into more technical works.

“Bitcoin Clarity: A Guide to Understanding” – Kiara Bickers (2020)

Published in 2020, Bitcoin Clarity: A Guide to Understanding by Kiara Bickers is an accessible guide that breaks down the benefits, risks, and reasons to consider or avoid investing in Bitcoin in a clear and understandable way.

The author manages to effectively explain not only how Bitcoin works, but also the reasons behind its adoption or rejection, providing a balanced and informed view.

Bitcoin Clarity is ideal for newcomers to the “crypto” ecosystem, but also serves as a valuable refresher for those already familiar with the subject. As the title suggests, the book provides the clarity needed to understand this complex financial world, making it a recommended read for anyone interested in this fascinating world.

“Bitcoin: Hard Money You Can’t F*ck With” – Jason A. Williams (2020)

Published in 2020, Bitcoin: Hard Money You Can’t F*ck With by Jason A. Williams, is an accessible read that explores the history of money, the evolution of bitcoin, and the author’s views on the future of the financial system. Aimed primarily at beginners, the book breaks down complex concepts into simple terms, making bitcoin easy to understand even for those with no prior experience in the industry.

Williams provides a clear and educational overview of the current financial landscape and how bitcoin fits into this complicated puzzle. Through simple explanations, readers will not only learn about Bitcoin, but also gain an overview of the global financial system, making it an interesting and educational read. It is ideal for those looking for an introduction without the need to delve into advanced technical details, and serves as an excellent starting point for understanding bitcoin’s disruptive potential in the global economy.

“The Hidden Cost of Money” – Sebastian Bunney (2023)

Published in 2023, The Hidden Cost of Money by Sebastian Bunney is an enlightening work that takes the complex financial issues that affect our daily lives and breaks them down into terms that a novice can easily understand. Bunney highlights the hidden costs associated with traditional money and suggests how bitcoin could offer solutions to these problems.

The author succeeds in simplifying a variety of complicated financial concepts and turning them into an accessible and informative read.

The Hidden Cost of Money is ideal for those seeking a deeper understanding of the current financial system and interested in exploring how bitcoin could revolutionize the way we use and understand money. This work is an excellent introduction for anyone who wants to discover the economic implications of money in their daily lives and how the world of cryptocurrencies could offer a viable alternative.

“The Bitcoin Standard: The Decentralized Alternative to Central Banking” – Saifedean Ammous (2018)

Published in 2018, The Bitcoin Standard: The Decentralized Alternative to Central Banking by Saifedean Ammous offers an in-depth exploration of why bitcoin could become a new monetary standard. Ammous combines economic theory, historical context, and technological development to present a compelling vision of how bitcoin could challenge and replace the traditional central banking system.

The book’s clarity and naturalness make it an excellent introduction to both economics and monetary theory with a specific focus on bitcoin. Ammous approaches the subject in a straightforward manner, supported by verifiable facts and economic theory, making it a recommended read for those who want to go beyond sensationalism and hearsay.

Through a well-structured book without unnecessary jargon, the author manages to synthesize the complexity of bitcoin and its potential to redefine the global financial system, making this book a valuable guide for beginners and enthusiasts in distributed ledger technologies and the cryptocurrency sector.

“The Fiat Standard: The Debt Slavery Alternative to Bitcoin” – Saifedean Ammous (2022)

Published in 2022, The Fiat Standard: The Debt Slavery Alternative to Bitcoin is a continuation of the ideas presented in his previous work, The Bitcoin Standard. In this book, Ammous delves into the workings of the fiat money system and argues that fiat money policies contribute to a modern form of debt slavery.

Ammous examines how the fiat system, with its ability to print money without backing, creates cycles of debt and economic dependency that perpetuate financial instability. He offers a critical analysis of the power and control structures that underpin the fiat system and presents bitcoin as a viable alternative to escape this debt trap.

With a critical and argumentative perspective, The Fiat Standard provides an insightful look at how bitcoin could offer a refuge from the flaws and inequalities inherent in the current monetary system.

“Broken Money: Why Our Financial System is Failing Us and How We Can Fix It” – Lyn Alden (2023)

Published in 2023, Broken Money: Why Our Financial System is Failing Us and How We Can Fix It by Lyn Alden provides an in-depth analysis of the flaws in current monetary systems and explores Bitcoin as a possible solution. Alden examines the history of money, the vulnerabilities of monetary policies, and the role of central banks, providing an accessible and critical view of how these dynamics affect global economic stability.

The book describes the evolution of currencies and the consequences of monetary policies in a historical context, highlighting the challenges facing fiat systems and how Bitcoin, with its resistance to manipulation and global accessibility, could offer a viable alternative.

Broken Money is a valuable read for those interested in understanding both the inherent weaknesses of the current monetary system and the possibilities that Bitcoin offers for a more stable and just future. 

“Web3: The End of Business as Usual” – Graham Cooke (2022)

Published in 2022, Web3: The End of Business as Usual by Graham Cooke offers an in-depth exploration of how the Internet’s evolution to Web3 is transforming the business world and the global economy.

Cooke takes a clear-eyed look at how the growing adoption of blockchain technology is transforming traditional paradigms of business, media, talent management, and operations.

Web3 is a must-read for those who want to understand and adapt to the new digital era, preparing for the disruptive impact Web3 will have on business and the economy worldwide.

“The Philosophy of Bitcoin” – Álvaro D. Maria (2022)

Published in Spanish in 2022 and then translated, The Philosophy of Bitcoin by Álvaro D. María is an accessible and revealing read that explores Bitcoin from a philosophical and historical perspective, without delving into technical aspects. The author discusses how Bitcoin challenges the traditional monetary system, based on state-issued currencies, and suggests that this cryptocurrency represents an innovation comparable to gunpowder, the printing press or the Internet. D. Maria argues that the belief in an authority-backed money and the conception of the state as a political form are in crisis, proposing instead that Bitcoin redefines private property rights and offers a space where states lose their sovereignty.

The book examines how Bitcoin can function as a tool for a “cryptocracy” through a clear and thoughtful approach.

“The Book of Satoshi: The Collected Writings of Bitcoin Creator Satoshi Nakamoto” – Phil Champagne (2014)

Published in 2014, The Book of Satoshi: The Collected Writings of Bitcoin Creator Satoshi Nakamoto by Phil Champagne is not a conventional book, but a groundbreaking collection of emails and forum posts by Satoshi Nakamoto and other early players in the history of bitcoin.

The collection includes documents ranging from early concepts and theories to technical discussions and early developments of the Bitcoin project. While not a traditional narrative or analytical book, The Book of Satoshi is invaluable for those seeking an in-depth understanding of Nakamoto’s vision and approach to the creation and design of Bitcoin.

It is essential reading for cryptocurrency enthusiasts and anyone interested in the origins and thinking behind one of the most disruptive innovations of the modern era.

“The UnCommunist Manifesto: A Message of Hope, Responsibility and Liberty for All” – Aleks Svetski and Mark Moss (2022)

Published in 2022, The UnCommunist Manifesto: A Message of Hope, Responsibility and Liberty for All, by Aleks Svetski y Mark Moss is a short and concise work that offers an incisive critique of communism and current collectivist policies. It is notable for its clarity in defining key terms such as Capitalism, Communism, Inflation, Deflation, and more, offering the reader a deeper understanding of fundamental concepts that are often taken for granted.

The discussion around equality of opportunity versus equality of outcome is particularly compelling, as it highlights how striving for equality of outcome can lead to contemporary issues such as ‘woke’ activism. Along with its critique, the book presents practical solutions for promoting individual freedom and productive cooperation, contrasting these ideas with current collectivist and political trends.

It is essential reading for those interested in the dynamics between individual autonomy and collectivism, and in the search for a balance between personal freedom and social responsibility.

“The Wealth of Nations” – Adam Smith (1776)

Published in 1776, “The Wealth of Nations” by Adam Smith is a seminal work that lays the foundation for modern economics and free market principles. In this influential book, Smith explores how economic growth and social welfare can be achieved through free competition and the division of labor.

He introduces the famous metaphor of the “invisible hand,” which describes how individual actions in pursuit of self-interest can, without intending to, contribute to the common good and market equilibrium. Smith argues that specialization and the expansion of markets drive efficiency and economic development, while free competition corrects misalignments and encourages innovation.

Although written in the 18th century, The Wealth of Nations remains relevant to understanding modern markets.

The principles of the “invisible hand,” competition and specialization are more applicable today than ever, particularly in the context of decentralization and constant innovation that characterizes the distributed ledger technologies sector.

“Principles of Economics” – Carl Menger (1871)

Published in 1871, Principles of Economics by Carl Menger is a seminal work that marks the beginning of the Austrian School of Economics. In this book, Menger introduces and develops the concept of subjective value theory, which holds that the value of goods and services is not intrinsic, but derived from the individual and subjective valuations of consumers. This revolutionary perspective challenges previous notions of objective value and emphasizes the importance of the role of the individual in price formation.

Menger explores how prices are determined by individual choices and preferences in the marketplace, and how these prices reflect the marginal utility of goods. His ideas are particularly relevant to understanding the valuation of digital assets in decentralized markets, where the value of cryptocurrencies and other assets is influenced by the perceptions and decisions of a large number of market participants.

“Capitalism and Freedom” – Milton Friedman (1962)

First published in 1962, Capitalism and Freedom by Milton Friedman is a seminal work that explores the intersection of economic freedom and political liberty. In this influential book, Friedman, a leading free-market advocate and critic of Keynesianism, argues that economic freedom is essential to preserving and promoting political freedom. According to Friedman, free economies not only generate material prosperity, but also provide the necessary conditions for a democratic and open society.

Friedman examines how government control of the economy can limit individual freedom and personal development, and advocates free-market policies as a means of maximizing freedom and prosperity.

His analysis is particularly relevant in the context of cryptocurrencies, which represent a form of resistance to government censorship and a potential for strengthening financial freedom.

This book provides a sound theoretical basis for understanding how decentralization and free markets can influence the global economic and political structure, and offers valuable insights into the impact of cryptocurrencies on financial autonomy and individual freedom.

“The Code Book: The Science of Secrecy from Ancient Egypt to Quantum Cryptography” – Simon Singh (1999)

Published in 1999, The Code Book by Simon Singh is a fascinating work on the history of cryptography, taking the reader from ancient Egyptian encryption methods to the first steps toward quantum cryptography. The book is remarkable for its ability to make complex technical concepts accessible, appealing to both experts and non-specialist readers. Singh brilliantly recounts episodes such as the breaking of the Enigma code during World War II.

While still an excellent book for understanding the basic principles of cryptography, recent major technological advances have made it considerably out of date. Nevertheless, it remains a valuable read for anyone who wants to understand the historical background of cryptography, although it should be supplemented with more recent material to get a complete picture of the current landscape.

“The Internet of Money” (Volúmenes 1, 2 y 3) – Andreas M. Antonopoulos (2016, 2017, 2019)

The Internet of Money series by Andreas M. Antonopoulos, consisting of three volumes published between 2016 and 2019, offers a unique perspective on Bitcoin by focusing on the “why” rather than the “how.” Antonopoulos explores the importance of Bitcoin and public blockchains, contextualizing their impact on the modern world and their philosophical and economic implications.

Each volume in the series addresses deep and thoughtful topics related to the cryptocurrency revolution. The first volume introduces the philosophy and potential of Bitcoin to transform the global financial system. The second volume continues this exploration with a focus on how Bitcoin can challenge established power structures and promote financial inclusion. The third volume compiles a series of inspirational talks, where Antonopoulos discusses the resilience of code, privacy in the digital age, and the potential of Bitcoin.

Through these books, the autor not only explains the technology behind Bitcoin, but also examines how it could change the way we understand money and freedom in society.

“The Blocksize War: The Battle Over Who Controls Bitcoin’s Protocol Rules” – Jonathan Bier (2021)

Published in 2021, The Blocksize War: The Battle Over Who Controls Bitcoin’s Protocol Rules by Jonathan Bier provides a detailed chronicle of one of the most significant disputes in bitcoin’s history: the conflict over block size and the implementation of SegWit.

While the book may be dense for some readers due to the use of technical jargon and the inclusion of related topics that stray from the central conflict, it provides valuable insight for those who want to understand in depth how these decisions affected the decentralization and development of bitcoin.

The Blocksize War is essential reading for those who want to understand the context and consequences of the critical decisions that shaped the Bitcoin protocol.

“Mastering Bitcoin: Unlocking Digital Cryptocurrencies” – Andreas M. Antonopoulos (2014)

Published in 2014, Mastering Bitcoin: Unlocking Digital Cryptocurrencies by Andreas M. Antonopoulos is widely recognized as one of the most detailed texts for understanding Bitcoin from a technical perspective. The book provides an in-depth exploration of the technical principles underlying the cryptocurrency, including the underlying cryptography, the structure of the blockchain, and the consensus mechanisms that allow Bitcoin to function.

Because of its detailed, technical approach, the book is best suited for readers with minimal background in computer science, cryptography, or software development.

Antonopoulos provides comprehensive guidance on how Bitcoin processes transactions, secures the network, and maintains system integrity without the need for a central authority.

While it can be challenging for beginners, Mastering Bitcoin is a valuable resource for developers, cryptography experts, and anyone seeking an advanced technical understanding of how bitcoin works.

You can read and download the free version here.

“Mastering Bitcoin: Programming the Open Blockchain” – Andreas M. Antonopoulos (2017)

Published en 2017, Mastering Bitcoin: Programming the Open Blockchain by Andreas M. Antonopoulos is an updated and expanded edition of the popular original text. This version focuses on the technical aspects of programming, providing detailed guidance on how developers can interact with the Bitcoin blockchain.

The book covers recent advances in bitcoin technology since the first edition, including protocol improvements and new programming techniques. Antonopoulos provides an in-depth exploration of how to develop applications on top of the blockchain, how to work with APIs, and how to implement and optimize smart contracts. While the content remains technical and requires a background in computer science and cryptography, this expanded edition is an essential reference for developers interested in building on top of the Bitcoin infrastructure.

“Mastering Monero” – SerHack (2018)

Mastering Monero is a comprehensive guide that introduces readers to the world of Monero, a cryptocurrency known for its focus on privacy and security. The book offers a detailed overview of how Monero works, exploring its underlying technologies and providing a solid foundation for those wishing to delve into this fascinating field from a technical perspective.

For technical users, the book offers detailed chapters on integrating with the Monero blockchain and using its command line for creating wallets, addresses and transactions, which are more complex compared to Bitcoin. In addition, Mastering Monero covers developments such as Kovri, bulletproofs and hardware wallets, making this work a valuable resource for both developers and users interested in a deeper approach to cryptocurrency.

You can read and download the free version here.

Conclusion

This collection of key readings not only covers the fundamentals and implications of cryptocurrencies and blockchain, but also provides an in-depth look at the economic, technical, and philosophical implications of this technological revolution. Works such as The Bitcoin Standard and Broken Money explore the disruptive potential of these technologies, while Alvaro D. Maria’s The Philosophy of Bitcoin invites reflection on the philosophical principles behind bitcoin and its influence on traditional financial structures.

For those seeking technical knowledge, the list culminates with specialized texts that explore the structure of platforms such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Monero. In short, this collection is essential for those who want to delve deeper into the technical aspects as well as those who are interested in the philosophical and economic implications of the technological revolution

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