Centralized vs. Decentralized Data.
Today I was talking with Steve Munn of Clearpoint about why I think a decentralized interdependently-controlled digital monetary system might be a valuable possibility – citing financial transparency, accountability, and control spread to more hands as the major benefit. It’s obviously something very nuanced and complicated – Arin Crumley and I talk about this occasionally. It’s certainly the least corruptible monetary system. Steve’s concern was the other end of the spectrum, something that’s been trying to come into being: a centralized top-down controlled digital monetary system – the pinnacle of corruptability.
Tonight, I decided to check out this report from Catherine Austin Fitts: http://solari.com/archive/databeast This particular report shows the power of data transparency – and some of the implications of freeing up this information to the public more and more through open-source software tools, etc. like the ones she developed — But she is incredibly concerned about centralized government data control in the context of a tightening hand of the government. She is a person who is incredibly aware of the current dilemmas and her voice is one of reason and compassion.
Halfway down the report’s page, there is a video interview with Aaron Russo, who produced several major Hollywood films including Trading Places, and ran for Governor in the State of Nevada. I’ve posted the interview below. It is very poignant – especially as he gets near the end describing his friendship with lawyer Nick Rockefeller.
It’s difficult material but well worth the few minutes it takes to thoroughly watch.
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Credits:
PICTURE: Detroit Industry or Man and Machine, North Wall. 1932-33. Painted by Diego Rivera at the Detroit Museum of Fine Arts. Fresco.
For a closer look at the details in his murals, visit: http://www.dia.org/user_area/zoom/zoom.asp?ZoomifyImagePath=1921_1940_300ppi/33.10.n-s1&objectID=58538&image=1
