From Tsinghua to Singapore: Hu Yilin's Vision of a Bitcoin-Denominated World

The Leap from Academia to Crypto

Hu Yilin, once a professor of philosophy at Tsinghua University, made headlines when he left his prestigious position to move to Singapore. His reason? A deep-seated belief in Bitcoin’s potential to redefine global finance. ‘I wanted stability for my family,’ Hu explains, ‘but also a front-row seat to the financial revolution.’

Bitcoin as a Philosophical Tool

For Hu, Bitcoin isn’t just a currency; it’s a philosophical statement. Drawing from thinkers like Heidegger and Kant, he argues that Bitcoin represents a return to ‘authentic’ value storage—a concept increasingly lost in modern economies. ‘Fiat currencies are illusions,’ he says. ‘Bitcoin is the antidote.’

Singapore: A Hub for Crypto Thought

Why Singapore? Hu points to its unique blend of stability and openness. Unlike Hong Kong’s oppressive skyline, Singapore offers space—both physical and intellectual—for new ideas to flourish. It’s here that Hu hosts weekly readings of Heidegger’s Being and Time, attracting a diverse group of crypto-philosophers.

The Future: A Bitcoin-Denominated World

Hu envisions a future where Bitcoin serves as the backbone of global finance, untethered from government control. ‘It’s not about replacing dollars,’ he clarifies. ‘It’s about offering an alternative that respects individual sovereignty.’ His optimism is contagious, even as he acknowledges the challenges ahead.

Memecoins and Cultural Shifts

When asked about the rise of memecoins, Hu laughs. ‘They’re the punk rock of crypto—chaotic but necessary.’ He sees them as part of a broader cultural shift towards decentralization, where even humor can drive financial innovation.