Crypto Investors Labelled as ‘Psychopaths’ by Renowned Economist—Here’s Why

As a seasoned researcher and economist with extensive experience in the financial world, I have always approached every new development with a critical eye and an open mind. The recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Toronto on the psychological characteristics of crypto investors has certainly sparked debate within the cryptocurrency community.


Steve H. Hanke, an esteemed American economist and professor in the field of applied economics at Johns Hopkins University, has again garnered attention for his skeptical opinions towards individuals who own cryptocurrencies.

Known for his skepticism toward digital assets, Hanke recently took a public jab at digital currency investors, calling them ‘psychopaths’ while citing a newly published research from the University of Toronto.

Are Crypto Investors Psychopaths?

The research suggests that those who invest in digital currencies exhibit lower levels of “analytic and scientific thinking” than the general population. Furthermore, Hanke echoed the study’s findings, labeling crypto holders as “more likely to display psychopathic traits.”

The economist, who has long been a vocal critic of the crypto industry, shared a summary of the research on Elon Musk’s social media X, agreeing with its conclusions.

The study reveals that digital currency holders are not only less inclined towards analytical thinking but also more prone to traits associated with the so-called “Dark Tetrad” of personality—narcissism, psychopathy, sadism, and Machiavellianism.

RESEARCH FINDS: CRYPTO OWNERS = PSYCHOPATHS.
A team of researchers from the University of Toronto discovered that individuals who own cryptocurrency tend to have less analytical and scientific reasoning, and they are more likely to show signs of psychopathy when compared to the average person in society.
— Steve Hanke (@steve_hanke) August 26, 2024

Significantly, the research conducted by Hanke focused on approximately 2001 participants from Toronto University, who were primarily American adults. The objective of this study was to delve into the psychological and social traits of individuals who have been investing in and holding cryptocurrencies for an extended duration.

Community Reactions

As an analyst, I’ve noticed that Hanke’s endorsement of this study’s findings has sparked a lively discussion within the crypto community. Upon reviewing the comments on Hanke’s post, it appears that many individuals are upset with his statement and perceive the study as misleading or inaccurate.

For instance, one of the X users under the name Humble Warrior replied to Hanke’s post, noting:

Steve, is there any apprehension you might have regarding the fact that this research was financed by the National Science Foundation (NSF), which is a federal agency, with figures like Elizabeth Warren influencing it indirectly through their roles in Congress, such as making laws and overseeing operations?

As an analyst, I observed that while some commenters responded cordially, a substantial number of them took a more critical approach in their responses, engaging in debates with economists by offering counterarguments or even criticisms.

It seems you’re suggesting that institutions like BlackRock, Fidelity, Franklin Templeton, Wall Street as a whole, JP Morgan, and others might be acting in a cold, calculating manner reminiscent of psychopathic behavior, Steve. Is that correct?

Time to hang it up Steve, go enjoy retirement

— Tony Edward (Thinking Crypto Podcast) (@ThinkingCrypto1) August 27, 2024

To put it another way, well-known cryptocurrency analyst “Checkmate” humorously advised that since he’s now revealed his design skills, folks might want to avoid the bridges he engineered in the past.

The analyst added:

1. “It appears my abilities in science and my intentions have become questionable. Regrettably, I can’t disclose the projects I was involved with.”

Crypto Investors Labelled as ‘Psychopaths’ by Renowned Economist—Here’s Why

Featured image created with DALL-E, Chart from TradingView

Read More

2024-08-28 06:12