ECON3076: From Bitcoin to Blockchain

The introduction of cryptocurrencies sparked a revolution towards a decentralized, digital economy. Cryptocurrencies combine elements of cryptography and economics to create a more secure and anonymous form of money. One of the fundamental elements of cryptocurrencies is the blockchain - an immutable, digital ledger of economic transactions that records not only financial transactions, but anything of value. In this course, we begin by exploring the nature of money and the basics of cryptography, then develop a fundamental understanding of blockchain technologies using bitcoin cryptocurrency. We also examine the legal environment, future trends, and additional applications of the blockchain.

• Fall 2020