Bitcoins are most like shares of common stock

[ichi]

Why did we take this little tour? Because it illustrates that we can define our terms. And that it is foolish to use their terms -- money, cash, dollar, currency, and a crapload of others.

So, fresno, do you consider "GETS" to be one of "their terms"?

If so, please share your preferred term for Bitcoin.  I have read your comment that you already did, and I'm too lazy to find it.  Please indulge me 

[fresno]

I thought that it proved that we can use whatever words we want and define them however we want and just because 'they' use the word 'dollar' to mean something does not mean we can use a word spelled the same way to mean something completely different.

Yes, we can in theory. But do we have the organization to defend our terms? Do we even agree on what those terms might be?

We have anonymity, and we're below their radar at the moment. But that will change as soon as they see us as a threat. If you haven't seen the wheels of justice grinding in all their hypocritical glory, you are ripe for an amazement. Any appeals to "fairness" are going to get you slapped down hard.

I say the best way not to get shot at is to not be a target, and certainly not to donate the ammo. Don't claim to be money. It's that easy.

ichi: Why should I do your work for you? If you want to argue, then bring something to the table.

[ichi]

I say the best way not to get shot at is to not be a target, and certainly not to donate the ammo. Don't claim to be money. It's that easy.

I can't imagine that governments would ignore Bitcoin just because it didn't claim to be money.  It's the fact that it can anonymously mediate exchanges (including exchanges with currencies) that makes it a threat.

The solution, IMHO, is careful design and implementation, not semantics (or pleading).

ichi: Why should I do your work for you? If you want to argue, then bring something to the table.

OK, would one of y'all be so kind as to post a forum URL for the prior proposal?

Re anonymity, many Bitcoin users seem far too unconcerned, IMHO.

[satoshi]

Bitcoins have no dividend or potential future dividend, therefore not like a stock.

More like a collectible or commodity.

[Red]

Bitcoins have no dividend or potential future dividend, therefore not like a stock.

More like a collectible or commodity.

Seconded with a smile!