The document discusses the rise of cryptocurrency mining and blockchain technology. Over just a few months in 2017, hundreds of thousands of people became involved in mining cryptocurrencies. Successful currencies could see 100% profits in a single day, while bitcoin grew 2000% over 20 months. The document argues that mining today provides a more effective "rush" than the Gold Rushes of the past. Blockchain technology allows for the decentralization of various systems and removal of middlemen. This will further decentralize infrastructure, networks, energy, and society. Large amounts of data are and will continue to be created, and data mining will become increasingly important. However, the high energy usage of cryptocurrency mining through proof-of-work presents environmental concerns
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