Proof of Trust : An Innovator's Guide to the Past, Present, and Future of Blockchains

An eye-opening discussion of how to apply new blockchain technologies to realize our digital potential

In Zero Knowledge, Infinite Trust, pioneering cryptographer, blockchain innovator, and the co-inventor of the STARK cryptographic system, Eli Ben-Sasson, delivers a deeply insightful discussion of the fundamental values and mathematical foundations on which society’s technological backbone will be built. Skipping the speculative frenzy and political manifestos that characterize much of the popular discussion in blockchain, Ben-Sasson reveals how blockchain’s greatest promise lies in humanity’s timeless pursuit of integrity and trust in digital interactions.

The book explains how Zero Knowledge Proofs and STARK technology are solving critical challenges that have prevented truly decentralized networks from achieving mass adoption. It demonstrates how to use these tools to protect privacy, secure personal data and digital identities, ensure election integrity, and address other contemporary threats to safety, security, and wellbeing.

Inside the book:

• A discussion of current technological development in the context of a broader historical context, drawing original insights into how digital trust is evolving today
• An exploration of how mathematical certainty can replace institutional authority
• An up-to-date guide to using powerful blockchain technologies to reshape fundamental structures

Perfect for tech professionals and enthusiasts concerned about digital privacy, corporate power, and the future of technology, Zero Knowledge, Infinite Trust offers a compelling new perspective on how to achieve the digital future we were all promised and have yet to realize.

ELI BEN-SASSON is CEO and co-founder of StarkWare, an $8 billion blockchain technology company, and a pioneering cryptographer who co-invented the STARK cryptographic system―widely regarded as the gold standard solution for blockchain scalability. A co-inventor of the STARK, FRI, and Zerocash protocols and founding scientist of the Zcash Company, he previously held research positions at Princeton’s Institute for Advanced Study, Harvard, and MIT, and served as Professor of theoretical computer science at Technion in Israel.

NATHAN JEFFAY is a journalist who spent 20 years covering complex topics for mainstream audiences, including Middle East geopolitics during the Arab Spring and the coronavirus pandemic. He applies his expertise in making difficult subjects accessible to illuminate blockchain technology for general readers.