Vitalik Buterin considered for 2024 Nobel Prize in Economics

Ethereum (CRYPTO:ETH) co-founder Vitalik Buterin is being considered a “dark horse” candidate for the 2024 Nobel Prize in Economics. 

This suggestion came during an October 8 episode of the Marginal Revolution podcast, hosted by economists Tyler Cowen and Alex Tabarrok. 

They discussed Buterin’s contributions to monetary economics and blockchain technology, particularly through his role in creating Ethereum.

Cowen referred to Buterin as an “unusual pick,” but emphasized that his work has been revolutionary. 

He stated, “Vitalik built a platform, created a currency, and refuted Mises’ regression theorem in the process.” 

Tabarrok added that Buterin’s involvement in transitioning Ethereum from proof-of-work to proof-of-stake was a significant achievement, comparing it to “changing car tires while the car is moving.”

Both economists noted Buterin’s contributions as pivotal, second only to those of Bitcoin’s anonymous creator, Satoshi Nakamoto. 

Tabarrok remarked that Satoshi should have also received recognition, but speculated that he may no longer be alive, while Cowen expressed uncertainty about that claim.

While Buterin’s candidacy for the Nobel Prize is unconventional, his influence on modern economic systems through blockchain technology is undeniable. 

His work has revolutionized the way people think about decentralized finance and digital assets.

The winner of the Nobel Prize in Economics will be announced on October 14, and Buterin’s contributions make him a noteworthy contender for this prestigious honor.

At the time of writing, the Ethereum price was $2,371.81.