1/ I just finished reading The Mandibles by Lionel Shriver. It is probably the single greatest work of recent fiction that helps you understand why we need Bitcoin and decentralized, private money. What’s more it’s hilarious, readable, and makes for an excellent holiday gift.

2/ The book’s plot centers around the collapse of the US dollar in 2029 America. The story is told through the eyes of different members of the Mandible family. Like young Willing here who, after watching police conduct a gold raid on his home, explains hyperinflation to his Mom.

3/ Later in the book, we learn that the US government has completely eliminated cash by 2042. The same character Willing here wonders why it took so long for the government to ban it in the first place.

4/ The book is a few years old but it’s predictions seem scarily close to being plausible. For example, eventually the US government “chips” everyone with a constantly surveilled neck implant which acts as your credit card. The ultimate trade off between convenience and privacy.

5/ In this world you may actually be safe from everyone except for the IRS, rebranded the “Bureau for Social Contribution Assistance,” who are instantly apprised of any transaction. Citizens again trade off their freedom and are happy to not have to file tax forms.

6/ How long until this happens in China?

“Chipping was promoted as the ultimate convenience, and the ultimate in financial security. No more having to carry a wallet or device that thieves could steal on the street. At self-checkout, the terminal simply scanned your head.”

7/ In the book the “NIMF” creates a new currency — the Bancor — to replace the dollar. It eventually becomes the global currency and eventually, its cash variety is also eliminated to help crack down on crime. This makes our characters ponder about the meaning of freedom...

8/ This quote stuck with me:

“What if the definition of a truly free society is a place where you can still get away with something?”

9/ In short, a wonderful book. One thing haunts me, though: The Mandibles may help Americans and Europeans understand economic catastrophe. But so many others, including friends in Iran, Venezuela, and Zimbabwe don’t need a book. They’re living the plot in real life.