OAFP 5830 - Blockchain for Public Good : Innovation, Governance and Regulation

Technical innovation has been erected as the cornerstone of business success and societal progress, yet its governance and regulation are still poorly understood by public decision-makers and private actors alike. The ability to analyze emerging technological trends and assess both their potential and their challenges is critical to better distribute the benefits of new technologies and prevent dystopian drifts. In this class, we will explore this topic through the case of blockchain technologies. You will acquire the transverse knowledge required to understand distributed ledger technologies, from Bitcoin to Decentralized Finance (DeFi) and Web 3.0. From this technical understanding, we will delve into their economic potential and question their value propositions across industries. We will explore significant blockchain-based projects -current and upcoming- and learn to analyze how they intend to use blockchain tech to transform society. We will critically review regulations around the globe and evaluate the impact policy-makers have on innovative ecosystems. Finally, we will work together and empower you to create your own blockchain-based social innovation project proposals.

Pierre NORO

Enseignement électif

English

This course focuses on teamwork and in-class interaction. Every individual and group work will be shared to alleviate preparation work for every class and facilitate the discussion. Students are expected to consistently do their own research on the topics they chose for their executive summary, regulatory review, and their final project.

None

Spring 2021-2022

- An executive summary on a blockchain protocol or project (20%) - A pitch presenting the summary to the class (10%) - A review of the regulation in one jurisdiction (20%) - A detailed draft presenting a blockchain-based group project, its expected impact and roadmap (40%) - In-class participation (10%)

This course is meant to prepare you to take a concrete role in innovation, whether it is as a regulator, an expert in the public or the private sector, or as an entrepreneur. We will welcome several guest speakers and industry experts from startups, research teams, and public authorities. The final project is a group assignment. Your curiosity will be very much appreciated.