PGP Creator: Bitcoin Is Not the Revolution You Think | Phil Zimmermann

In this episode, cryptography legend Phil Zimmermann—creator of PGP—reflects on his role in the original “crypto wars,” the mixed societal impact of Bitcoin, and why he’s both intrigued by and cautious about Bitcoin’s role in human rights, crime, privacy, and global monetary systems. He applauds Bitcoin’s resistance to autocracy and surveillance but critiques its volatility, energy use, and criminal applications—offering a nuanced view of its legacy compared to PGP. Enjoy!

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Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction
02:45 PGP & Strong Cryptography
07:36 Digital Cash Breakthrough
09:20 Mixed Effects of Technology
13:03 Ads (Core, Ledger)
14:27 Bitcoin’s Mixed Effects
17:47 Proof-of-Work & Early innovations
23:06 Patents & Bitcoin
25:34 Bitcoin’s Good vs Bad
28:43 Criminals & Crypto
31:26 Improving Bitcoin
35:34 Ads (Core, Ledger)
37:00 Improving Bitcoin
39:49 Bitcoin vs Fiat
43:56 BItcoin Consensus
47:31 Building Support via Courts vs Politics
51:34 Laws Against Software
53:39 Bitcoin Shortcomings
55:49 Privacy & PGP
59:40 Bitcoin Energy Use
01:03:58 Is Bitcoin as Successful as PGP
01:05:26 Autocracies & Democracy
01:13:07 Bitcoin as a Pocketbook Issue

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Disclaimer: Nothing discussed on Supply Shock should be considered as investment advice. Please always do your own research & speak to a financial advisor before thinking about, thinking about putting your money into these crazy markets.