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Is Bitcoin a decentralized payment mechanism?

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  • Luther, William J.
  • Stein Smith, Sean

Abstract

We make a distinction between centralized, decentralized, and distributed payment mechanisms. A centralized payment mechanism processes a transaction using a trusted third party. A decentralized payment mechanism processes a transaction between the parties to the transaction. A distributed payment mechanism relies on the network of users to process a transaction on a shared ledger. We maintain that bitcoin is neither a centralized nor a decentralized payment mechanism. It is, instead, a distributed payment mechanism. We then consider decentralized and centralized aspects of the broader bitcoin payment space.

Suggested Citation

  • Luther, William J. & Stein Smith, Sean, 2020. "Is Bitcoin a decentralized payment mechanism?," Journal of Institutional Economics, Cambridge University Press, vol. 16(4), pages 433-444, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:cup:jinsec:v:16:y:2020:i:4:p:433-444_5
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Marthinsen, John E. & Gordon, Steven R., 2022. "Hyperinflation, Optimal Currency Scopes, and a Cryptocurrency Alternative to Dollarization," The Quarterly Review of Economics and Finance, Elsevier, vol. 85(C), pages 161-173.
    2. Hendrickson, Joshua R. & Luther, William J., 2022. "Cash, crime, and cryptocurrencies," The Quarterly Review of Economics and Finance, Elsevier, vol. 85(C), pages 200-207.
    3. Yerushalmi, Erez & Paladini, Stefania, 2023. "Blockchain in Financial Intermediation and Beyond: What are the Main Barriers for Widespread Adoption?," CAFE Working Papers 22, Centre for Accountancy, Finance and Economics (CAFE), Birmingham City Business School, Birmingham City University.
    4. Chen, Rongxin & Lepori, Gabriele M. & Tai, Chung-Ching & Sung, Ming-Chien, 2022. "Can salience theory explain investor behaviour? Real-world evidence from the cryptocurrency market," International Review of Financial Analysis, Elsevier, vol. 84(C).

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