What Bitcoin Did

The Fourth Turning is Here: Bitcoin vs Crisis | Brandon Quittem

76 snips
Sep 25, 2025
Brandon Quittem, author of The Mycelium of Money and VP at Swan, dives into the Fourth Turning framework, discussing how historical generational cycles impact today's political chaos. He explains the loss of faith in institutions and the potential rise of Bitcoin as a stabilizing force amidst turmoil. The conversation touches on the dangers of political nihilism, the implications of social fragmentation, and the likelihood of conflict as crises unfold. Brandon offers a vision for a future where Bitcoin could reshape societal structures and mitigate financial anxiety for the youth.
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INSIGHT

Bitcoin As A Living Network

  • Brandon Quittem discovered Bitcoin in 2017 and deepened his understanding after losing gains in 2018.
  • His Mycelium of Money essay connected Lightning Network topology to fungal mycelial networks, framing Bitcoin as a living network.
ANECDOTE

Finding The Fourth Turning During COVID

  • Brandon found the Fourth Turning during COVID while locked down in Minneapolis after George Floyd's death.
  • He read the book quickly and wrote 'Bitcoin and the Rhythms of History' applying the framework to Bitcoin.
INSIGHT

Generational Cycles Shape Social Mood

  • The Fourth Turning describes repeating 80–90 year cycles driven by generational archetypes.
  • Archetypes (hero, artist, prophet, nomad) create predictable social moods and responses to crises.
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