Part 4/17:
Antonopoulos discusses how system architecture influences societal outcomes. Large hierarchical institutions, whether governments or banks, tend to produce inequality, exclusivity, and tribalism, reflecting the worst aspects of power consolidation. While the internet democratized communication, the financial sector has largely lagged, maintaining borders, borders, and class divisions. These insular systems limit global economic participation, entrenching inequality and marginalization.
He highlights that geopolitical factors heavily influence financial systems, often reinforcing national interests over individual rights. Today, the world is interconnected in communication, but finance remains segmented and nationalistic—hampering true economic inclusion.