This common retort is so tired, can we just stop with it once and for all. The price history of Bitcoin is irrelevant to the arguments given here against it.

Not to mention the opposite ill-intended argument can trivially follow: "this thread is full of people disregarding the arguments against bitcoin because they are invested in it"

I agree with you. Both versions of this argument have to stop in favor of actual discussion (which, it seems, there is a good amount of in this thread)

The tech world should smash buy now and contribute in every way they can to improve the technology.

Most technology companies should hold it on their balance sheets and employ a contributor.

I should rephrase. Just buy. If you want to get involved and contribute, please do. Money in the hands of centralized figures is very dangerous.