I've been reading this mailing list for quite some time now, and usually don't message or write here much. Maybe one other time.

I'm writing a paper on the vitality of Cryptocurrencies. My argument is that they are here to stay, and will only continue to rise as our technology becomes better. Some of the statistics I plan to use are the growth in market value, not only in BTC, but in Altcoins as well, the pros of BTC and how altcoins can do what BTC cannot, and lastly the versatility of exchanging coins via places like Shapeshift.io.

Any suggestions on data or stats that might be useful? Shamir just said at RSA, "Yet to see a use case for blockchain that can't be solved with an existing simpler technology"
I simply disagree. I believe the use of Cryptocurrencies are not only a statement against government control, but also a currency used by people whom want to remain private. (obviously, again, better coins than btc).