The University of Wyoming has unveiled the UW Bitcoin Research Institute, the first academic center dedicated to Bitcoin studies, with Dr. Bradley Rettler, an Associate Professor of Philosophy, appointed as its first director.
Announced at the Bitcoin 2024 Conference in Nashville, the institute aims to advance Bitcoin research and understanding. Dr. Rettler, who co-authored “Resistance Money: A Philosophical Case for Bitcoin,” brings his expertise to lead this initiative. His book delves into how Bitcoin can challenge authoritarianism, surveillance, and financial exclusion, offering a deep philosophical perspective on cryptocurrency.
The institute’s goals include establishing faculty positions focused on Bitcoin, promoting high-quality academic research, encouraging students to explore Bitcoin topics, and organizing workshops. It also plans to connect researchers and provide peer-reviewed studies for journalists and policymakers.
Located in a supportive legislative environment with access to renewable energy, the University of Wyoming is well-positioned for this endeavor. The institute will collaborate with various departments, including philosophy, economics, computing, and blockchain innovation, to enhance interdisciplinary research on Bitcoin.
By promoting rigorous scholarship and fostering connections among academics, the UW Bitcoin Research Institute seeks to legitimize Bitcoin studies within the academic world.
Bitcoin appears to be entering a more mature phase, with volatility reaching record lows and institutional interest on the rise.
Bitcoin has seen a volatile week, climbing over 7% and trading near $85,750 as of April 15.
Bitcoin may be gearing up for another rally, and one key macro trend could be the driving force: a surge in global liquidity.
Bitcoin briefly surged past $86,000 on Tuesday, reaching levels not seen since early April, before slipping back slightly.