Jason Lowery’s Softwar “dissertation” is an utter farce. It is a combination of disjointed, and subtly so, reasoning regarding cybersecurity as well as a rehashing of previously examined topics that were extensively analyzed a decade prior to Jason Lowery becoming a recognized figure in this domain.
First, let’s examine the nation state mining “defensive weaponry” absurdity. The concept of nation states being motivated to mine, or support mining within their territories, is not an innovative idea proposed by Jason. It is a frequently debated phenomenon dating back to 2011-2013. Virtually every Bitcoiner from that era who has actively engaged with this space has contemplated the involvement of nations in mining if Bitcoin demonstrated actual long-term success.
If Bitcoin were ever to gain geopolitical significance on a global scale, nation states would always show interest in the mining sector. Governments are involved in regulating all essential commodities and their production, from gold to oil and natural gas. This is not some groundbreaking thesis or concept; it is basic reasoning that was evident to every casual enthusiast in this arena over a decade ago.
The claim that Bitcoin secures data is outright ridiculous and illogical. Bitcoin does not “secure” data. It can timestamp information, but that does not serve as an infallible promise of security. It fails to protect data from being accessed by unauthorized individuals and copied or ensures its integrity and accuracy. Every piece of data on the blockchain is publicly available to anyone operating a node. The notion that Bitcoin assists in controlling access to information is simply ludicrous. By its very nature, any data placed on Bitcoin is accessible by anyone. This is the fundamental principle on which it operates, everything being open and transparent for verification.
Now, let’s discuss paywalls, APIs, and nonsensical phrases like “digital energy.” Lowery’s next bold assertion is that charging in bitcoin for API requests somehow enhances security. This is entirely absurd. Limiting access to an API is typically done for two main reasons: 1) to manage resource utilization and prevent waste, or 2) to permit access to only specific individuals you have granted authorization. Bitcoin may aid slightly with the former, but it does nothing to improve the latter.
Even monetizing an API with bitcoin does not significantly aid in resource management against DoS attacks. People can still send requests to your machine without making a payment. Those requests still need to be addressed or managed by conventional DoS prevention systems, which generally function by blackholing packets or redirecting them away from your system. Bitcoin transactions do not eliminate the necessity for such measures.
A currency that anyone can access does not restrict system access to just the specific individuals you wish to grant access. That is the role of cryptography. Passwords fulfill that function. Technologies that already exist independently of, and do not require, Bitcoin. Furthermore, even with such systems correctly implemented, the hardware and software within the secured system ultimately determine its security. Breaches do not occur because “Bitcoin is protecting it”; they happen because the security measures on that server are effectively enforced.
Neither Bitcoin, nor even proper cryptography absent of Bitcoin, provides security when implementations are flawed or vulnerabilities exist within those systems. This is the essence of cybersecurity, and Bitcoin in no way alters it. It does not render hardware free of defects, nor does it ensure security software is devoid of bugs. This entire element of his “dissertation” is utterly nonsensical, lacking any logical coherence. It’s a ruse intended to mislead those unfamiliar with these matters while building a reputation by disguising confusion and ineptitude behind uninformed supporters.
And the whole idea that “Bitcoin will halt wars” simply because nation states will compete in mining is utterly comical. Bitcoin mining will not alter geopolitical rivalries concerning agricultural lands, natural resources, military advantages, or any other issues that prompt wars between nations. Such beliefs are sheer fantasy.
Jason Lowery does not possess a “dissertation”; he has compiled a mass of incoherent nonsense surrounding a singular realization that countless Bitcoiners conceived long before he arrived in this field. It is an absolute farce, and anyone who subscribes to it reveals a complete lack of critical thinking abilities or understanding of the pertinent topics.
This article is a Take. The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of BTC Inc or Bitcoin Magazine.
