Going Infinite: The Rise and Fall of a New Tycoon

Late in the book, Lewis groups together Sam’s ventures—including FTX and Alameda Research—into what he refers to as “Sam’s world.” Imagine that Sam’s world is its own character. How does it compare to other companies and organizations described in the book?

The book explores the world of cryptocurrency through one person: Sam Bankman-Fried. What are the advantages and limitations of exploring an entire industry through the lens of one central figure?

Lewis notes the ways in which cryptocurrency institutions differ from traditional financial institutions. What insights can be drawn from his exploration of these disparities?

Sam is described as fundamentally different from other humans. How does this characterization affect the portrayal of Sam’s morality?

Lewis describes Sam’s childhood at length. What comparisons does Lewis implicitly draw between Sam’s childhood and his behavior as an adult?

Lewis claims that media portrayals of Sam and his inner circle differ from what Lewis observed first-hand. How do these contrasting portrayals shape the characterization of the main figures in the book?

In describing Sam and many of his employees, Lewis paints a picture of youthful immaturity. What techniques does Lewis use to create this impression? How does this affect the reader’s perception of their guilt or innocence?

In the text, Lewis implies that he has a greater understanding of “Sam’s World” than, for instance, FTX’s new CEO, John Ray, who Lewis paints as a bumbling amateur. At the same time, reviewers have criticized Lewis for painting a too-glowing portrait of Sam and for glossing over obvious signs of criminality. Did insider access lead to a biased depiction? Is distance a requirement for objectivity, and if so, what role does objectivity play in a text such as this?