Date of Award

Fall 11-21-2025

Document Type

Undergraduate Honors Thesis

Degree Name

B.A. in International Studies

Organizational Unit

Josef Korbel School of International Studies, International Studies

First Advisor

Ilene Grabel

Second Advisor

Mayumi Beckelheimer

Third Advisor

George DeMartino

Copyright Statement / License for Reuse

All Rights Reserved
All Rights Reserved.

Keywords

Bitcoin, Cryptocurrency, Private sector interest in Bitcoin, Governmental interest in Bitcoin, Global economy, Brazil, El Salvador, United States, Nontraditional financial developments

Abstract

Regardless of one’s opinion, Bitcoin’s presence in the global economy is growing. However, Bitcoin’s emerging role and its implications are greatly under-researched, particularly in the context of government interest in Bitcoin. Nonetheless, increased private investment in Bitcoin and increased government interest in formally incorporating Bitcoin into existing economic systems, suggest a new development within the global economy that must be investigated. Through qualitative text analysis of pro-Bitcoin narratives presented in digital media platforms and official government policies and public statements, this thesis explores how private and government interest in Bitcoin is explained and framed within these contexts. This study finds that there are many important nuances within pro-Bitcoin narratives in the context of private interest that challenge and expand contemporary thinking. It presents new insights into government interest in Bitcoin, particularly concerning its intended role and future, suggesting it will have a presence in efforts beyond finance. Finally, this thesis suggests that despite converging attitudes in private and governmental pro-Bitcoin narratives, diverging attitudes reflect curious implications concerning distrust and dissatisfaction in government efforts. Ultimately, this study reflects that Bitcoin is a dynamic and non-traditional development that requires continuous research to better understand its present and future role in global systems.

Copyright Date

9-24-2026

Publication Statement

Copyright is held by the author. User is responsible for all copyright compliance.

Rights Holder

Mina Khadem

Provenance

Received from Author

File Format

application/pdf

Language

English (eng)

Extent

94 pgs

File Size

1.2 MB

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