Post by @mwl@io.mwl.io

@mwl@io.mwl.io

2026-10-29 22:54 UTC

The purpose of a system is what it does. The purpose of cryptocurrency is crime and money laundering. Every so often, though, I have an impulse to support bitcoin on my store. Take payment, immediately convert it to cash, transfer to my pocket. Wouldn't that be better than sending that cash to crooks? Then I come to my senses. That ecosystem soils all who touch it. Looking at the news today: I chose wisely.

Replies (1)

@duncan_bayne@mastodon.bsd.cafe 2026-10-29 23:08

@mwl@io.mwl.io Don't disagree with you on crypto specifically, but I do have an issue with "the purpose of a system is what it does". I've seen it used as an excuse to not consider: * What were the actual goals of the people setting up the system? (In other words, Chesterton's Fence). * Assuming those goals are still desirable, could the system be fixed to achieve them, and if so, how? * Has the system been deliberately perverted into its current state, or was there an error in the original system setup or maintenance? In the extreme, I've seen it used to shut down discussion and dissent around ideas like defunding the police. The thinking being that because the system currently has problems like systemic racism, it's racist to want to reform the police force instead of doing away with it. Anyway, I find that phrase a bit of a red flag 🏮 /me ends rant ;)

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