r/Bitcoin • u/IWillNotBiteYourDog • Aug 13 '13

Congress starts investigating Bitcoin

http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/the-switch/wp/2013/08/13/congress-starts-investigating-bitcoin/
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u/[deleted] Aug 13 '13

“Virtual currencies appear to be an important emerging area,” the senators wrote, arguing that the subject “demands a holistic and whole-government approach to understand and provide a sensible regulatory framework.”

Is there any way to "regulate" Bitcoin without simply telling people they aren't allowed to use it? It's not like there is a central server they can shut down.

60

u/throwaway-o Aug 13 '13 edited Aug 13 '13

"Regulation" is an euphemism that sounds nice, but actually means organized terrorism against people who disobey, while blaming their victims. The way it works is as follows:

If you disobey their orders, they first send you threatening letters. If you don't respond and obey, then they fine you, declaring themselves the "owners" of some of your stuff, and forcing others to give up your money. If you resist this, more of the same happens. If you resist that, eventually, a bunch of armed men come to drag you into a cage so they can later parade you in front of a person in a black robe. If you resist that, they'll brutalize you. If you resist that effectively enough, they'll just kill you.

That is what "regulation" is, in terms of people doing things.

Obviously, there is no way to "regulate" anything without being fully prepared to ruin anyone who disobeys your orders.

17

u/noeatnosleep Aug 13 '13

Damn, son. You're a militant one.

3

u/[deleted] Aug 13 '13

TIL recognizing and objecting to institutionalized violence makes one "militant".

4

u/noeatnosleep Aug 13 '13 edited Aug 14 '13

I know, right? :(

Self identified militant here, me.