>In cryptocurrency, the perpetrators are honest and transparent about it being a ponzi scheme, but surround it in so much techno-babble that they make it sound like a ponzi schme is what you WANT.

I think this isn't quite right in all cases. I think some people know it's a Ponzi scheme and genuinely do want a Ponzi scheme. They just want to get in and out quickly. It's gambling. Sometimes you're a victim and you lose money, and sometimes it works out and you make money.