This morning I walked through Ann Arbor, MI to Fred's Cafe. I asked the manager for an espresso because I do not seem to sleep as much as I did before I became obsessed with graphene blockchain technology. I handed the man three pieces of paper and he handed me some coins. I did not look at them but I put them in my pocket. When he returned with an espresso I asked him if he had a website or business card. He said no but asked what I wanted to discuss. (internally I thought "do not unload everything on your mind on this unsuspecting guy").
Externally I said "I know a lot of people who would love to frequent your cafe more often if you would accept cryptocurrency - have you ever considered it?".
The manager looked as if a wave washed over him as he said "No, I am an old man (this was intended as a joke - he did not appear old and must have known this) and skeptical of things like that."
I said, "I understand" (I did not) and that I would like to talk about it in the future if he is open to it. He said okay and I thanked him for the espresso.
I started to think about the negative public image around cryptocurrency. Maybe it comes from the term itself. Let's break it down.
Adding the modifier "crypto" derived from "cryptography"
To me, adding secure transmission to currency seems like a good idea. Every day individuals are exposed to the risk that financial institutions will be hacked or otherwise compromised. Cryptocurrency is a replacement to this risk-laden financial services model. So I leave you with this thought. Who benefits from this negative popular image of cryptocurrency?