Putting aside your argument against "bitcoin maxis", I agree that decentralization is the issue here. Do you consider eth decentralized? I don't.
It's not about the network being decentralized within itself, it can be completely centralized with just a single mining entity. The point is, that even such, such a network is "decentralized" in the eyes of the governments because it is not controlled by any government. However, of course if such a network was really fully controlled by just one entity then it would be highly debatable if it was really independent from governments' influence.
reply
If something is centralized, it can easily be controlled by governments, no?
reply
That's pretty much what I meant in the last sentence of my comment above.
reply
Exactly.
reply
I use the word "decentralization" as a simplification. Use "loss of control" if you prefer. Bottom line is the same: any crypto or public blockchain will be seen as something going against fiat, central banks, and the associated power/control.
reply
It's certainly not decentralized anymore. Regardless of one's position on if it ever truly was, the switch from proof-of-work to proof-of-stake effectively killed any validity to claims of decentralization.
reply