US Defense Department Reviews Jason Lowery’s Book on Bitcoin
Impact of the Security Review
Jason Lowery, an officer in the US Space Force and a research fellow at MIT, has encountered a significant hurdle with his book titled ‘Softwar: A Novel Theory on Power Projection and the National Strategic Significance of Bitcoin’. The Department of Defense (DoD) has initiated a retroactive security and policy review of the publication.
Implications for National Security
This review raises critical questions regarding the government’s stance on national security protocols, highlighting a potential concern that the content of Lowery’s book may offer insights beneficial to other nations. The DoD’s actions suggest a focus on safeguarding US dominance regarding cybersecurity and power projection through Bitcoin.
Key Concepts in ‘Softwar’
In ‘Softwar’, Lowery delves into the proof-of-work mechanism of Bitcoin, portraying it as a form of cyber power projection. He posits that Bitcoin possesses the potential to become a strategic asset for national security, with its underlying technology likely reshaping modern warfare and cybersecurity approaches.
Understanding the DoD’s Review Process
The DoD’s security review process is pivotal for preventing unauthorized disclosures of classified information and ensuring that published works align with national policies. Although these assessments typically take place prior to publication, the retroactive nature of this review indicates potential concerns over sensitive content that could risk national security.
Availability Challenges
As a result of the ongoing review, physical copies of ‘Softwar’ have become increasingly scarce, with prices rising to more than $300. Although digital versions are still in circulation, the official distribution of the book is uncertain. Moreover, the text archived by the Internet Archive is currently unavailable due to a security breach on the site.
Significance of Lowery’s Thesis
Lowery’s work has attracted notable attention for its unique perspective on incorporating Bitcoin into defense strategies. By proposing that Bitcoin’s proof-of-work mechanism can be utilized as a power projection tool, he argues for its pivotal role in protecting digital information and altering geopolitical power dynamics.
Related Articles and Sources
For further reading and insights into this growing discourse, check out these articles:
