The value of the most preferred alternative forgone when scarce means are used for one chosen end.
Opportunity cost is best understood as part of a system rather than as an isolated definition. Its related coordinates show the mechanisms, incentives and historical records that give the term practical meaning.
Opportunity cost is an analytical lens, not a slogan or automatic proof that every claim about Bitcoin is correct. Use it to trace scarcity, incentives, prices, time and human choice, then compare the reasoning with the protocol’s verifiable rules.
Understanding Opportunity cost helps distinguish a verifiable Bitcoin mechanism or historical record from slogans, products and market narratives.
For the clearest picture, read this entry together with Human action, Economic calculation, Capital goods. The reverse links also lead from Human action, Entrepreneurship.
Linked to related atlas coordinates
Grounded in a source record
Explains function and trade-offs
Part of the open Bitcoin knowledge graph