Chain Reaction – How Blockchain Will Transform The Developing World is an important publication that strips away the focus on technology and puts the emphasis on culture and how blockchain will change the way emerging countries operate.
Written by Paul Domjan, Gavin Serkin, Brandon Thomas and John Toshack, the book is essentially a collection of essays that point out the benefits that blockchain technology can bring to countries that need a more equitable way of operating.
The disparity in some of the poorest places in the world is an insult to anybody who considers themselves human and the immutability of blockchain means that any corrupt organisation or politician cannot buck the ‘system’.
The book also points out the wider implications of blockchain in other parts of the world and for those who are not completely familiar with the subject, it is also an excellent guide to what blockchain is, not just a bunch of disconnected chain or two… and in these examples, nothing to do with Bitcoin speculation or all the nonsense narrative that surrounds this New World.
At 110 pages, it’s a short book but covers eight subjects in detail such as comparing blockchain to the railroads of yesteryear, explaining who ‘really controls blockchain’ and what blockchain actually solves.
I am familiar with the subject of the emerging world and the opportunity blockchain offers after speaking at many conferences in Africa in places such as Lagos, Accra and Johannesburg about how it can bring about positive change.
Whether it’s preventing blood diamonds, child labour or work conditions, some companies are already harnessing its power and they are mentioned in this excellent book.
This is essential reading for those who are new to blockchain and those who are experts in its implementation as well as reinforcing ideas that people such as me already have. I hope it reaches a wide audience. Long live blockchain!
Monty Munford has more than 15 years' experience in mobile, digital media, web and journalism. He is the founder of Mob76, a company that helps tech companies raise money and exit. He speaks regularly at global media events with a focus on Africa, writes a weekly column for The Telegraph, is a regular contributor to The Economist, Wired, Mashable and speaks regularly on the BBC World Service.
