I think bitcoin is a classic "worse is better" disruptive innovation. There are arguably better blockchain/blockdag implementations now, but it has a huge first

I think bitcoin is a classic "worse is better" disruptive innovation. There are arguably better blockchain/blockdag implementations now, but it has a huge first-mover advantage and name recognition, which are important economic features of Bitcoin. As a value store it is arguably a hedge against M2 inflation, which is wildly out of control right now. All sources of perceived growth are absorbing funds like mad in an attempt to outrace the growth of the money supply. So: is there a "better" option -- depends on the dimensions along which "better" has utility. I think there's a value in trustless value exchange, there's a value in the brand of Bitcoin, and a value in trying to hedge central bank M2 inflation. I am a big believer in blockchain/blockdag smart contracts as a future implementation of the capital allocation function of government, especially if the implementation includes a national currency. Built-in taxation through demurrage, funding of proposals voted on and executed automatically as a smart contract, fully auditable and transparent operations -- there are a lot of technical, societal benefits. I agree that energy consumption is largely a moot point.