Decoder with Nilay Patel Recode Decode: Ben Mezrich
Dec 13, 2019
In this engaging discussion, bestselling author Ben Mezrich dives into his latest book, Bitcoin Billionaires, and reflects on his iconic work, The Accidental Billionaires, which inspired The Social Network. He shares juicy insights about the evolving portrayal of Mark Zuckerberg and the Winklevoss twins' pivotal role in cryptocurrency. Mezrich critiques Facebook's approach to digital currency, asserting it's the wrong fit for such an ambitious project. The conversation also sparks curiosity about a possible sequel to the film that captured a tech revolution.
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Facebook's Origin Story
- Ben Mezrich learned about Facebook's origin story from Eduardo Saverin, who claimed Mark Zuckerberg betrayed him.
- This dramatic narrative, combined with the Winklevoss twins' lawsuit, formed the basis of "The Accidental Billionaires."
Facebook's Impact
- Mezrich saw Facebook as a pivotal moment, a sea change in how people interact.
- He aimed to capture this origin story, similar to Michael Crichton's approach.
Zuckerberg's Reaction
- Zuckerberg called Mezrich the "Jackie Collins of Silicon Valley," disputing the book's portrayal of him as motivated by girls.
- Mezrich maintains the book accurately depicted the social dynamics and motivations of Zuckerberg and his peers.
