Book Review: Going Infinite by Michael Lewis
Michael Lewis has done it again! In his latest rollercoaster of a book, “Going Infinite,” he takes us on a thrilling journey through the crazy world of crypto and, boy, is it a wild ride! Let me tell you, if you thought his previous books were mind-blowing, you haven’t seen anything yet.
First off, can we just talk about the timing? With the ongoing criminal trial of Sam Bankman-Fried making headlines, this book couldn’t have come at a more perfect moment. Lewis dives headfirst into the heart of the crypto universe and brings to light some of the most bizarre, shocking, and just downright insane stories of the crypto world. This book at times reads like a suspense novel, and it’s hard to believe it’s all real.
What sets Going Infinite apart is Lewis’s incredible storytelling ability. He paints vivid portraits of the people and places that make up the crypto world, and you can’t help but be captivated by their stories. You’ll laugh, you’ll gasp, and you might even shed a tear or two as you follow these characters through their insane adventures in this new digital frontier.
One thing I love about Lewis’s writing is his ability to make the seemingly mundane parts of crypto, like the jargon and the technology, accessible to anyone. Even if you don’t know a thing about blockchain or NFTs, you’ll come out of this book feeling like more of an expert. And if you’re already a crypto enthusiast, prepare to have your mind blown by the deeper insights Lewis uncovers.
Lewis continues by taking on the crucial role of an educator, introducing the relatively niche concept of effective altruism to a broader audience. Effective altruism is a philosophy and social movement that seeks to optimize the impact of one’s charitable actions. It’s about not just giving to a cause but giving in a way that maximizes the positive change in the world. Lewis does an exceptional job of demystifying this complex concept, breaking it down into accessible, relatable terms that even those unfamiliar with altruistic philosophies can grasp.
Central to Lewis’s narrative is the portrayal of crypto pioneers like Sam Bankman-Fried, who embodies the principles of effective altruism. By exploring the motivations and actions of these individuals, Lewis illustrates how they leverage their newfound crypto wealth and influence for the betterment of society.
Sam Bankman-Fried, in particular, is presented as a compelling case study. Rather than merely amassing riches for personal gain, he embodies the effective altruism ethos by using his resources to address significant global issues. Lewis sheds light on Bankman-Fried’s philanthropic efforts, which extend to areas like disaster relief, global healthcare access, and supporting effective charities. These initiatives exemplify the core values of effective altruism, where individuals actively seek to make a positive, measurable impact on the world’s most pressing challenges.
In a world where crypto is often portrayed as a utopia or a dystopia, Lewis gives us a balanced view. He shows us the good, the bad, and the downright absurd, and it’s refreshing to see a book that’s so even-handed in its approach.
So, if you’re looking for a book that’s both timely and a total page-turner, Going Infinite is it. Whether you’re a crypto aficionado or just someone curious about this crazy world, Michael Lewis’s latest masterpiece is a must-read. Get ready for an unforgettable journey through the highs and lows of the crypto universe. Trust me; you won’t be able to put it down!