Study: Silk Road Was A "Paradigm Shift" In Drug Trade

I just noticed that this was not mentioned here, though it was in the drugs subreddit. Thought it might be interesting to this community. Mr. Ulbricht's work seems to have had many positive effects on the drug trade, especially in the area of reduced violence.

http://coinbrief.net/bitcoin-silk-road/


Comments


[9 Points] 367T:

Who'd have guessed. Taking the shady aspect of drugs out of the picture reveals that it isn't really a problem. Hell, just imagine if it was legal, we had proper buyer and seller protection, easy access to quality/purity tests, and people who have a problem or used too much didn't have to be afraid to call for medical help or help in general. That would make waaaay too much sense though.


[2 Points] shadyisgod:

Good article, it's true that being online means no turf wars (unless you count the DDOS attacks between market places) between gangs off dealers, the battle is no longer about being physical against other dealers it's about providing a better quality product. Buyers have a choice from all over the world.

Defiantly a good thing for "consumers". A feedback system is vital in ensuring the quality of the products. My dad (not a drug user, well at least to my knowledge) has always said legalize and regulate, I always thought he was a bit crazy (in my youth) for saying that, but its true. And the dark markets are one step closer to regulating items, in part to the feedback system, if you are going to do X drug, then make sure it's pure and not filled with shit.


[1 Points] gwern:

Original source paper:

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