the only reason i bring up the distinction btwn cryptography and hashing is for what i believe are public perception issues.
to me, the more we can describe Bitcoin as being based on "mathematics", which more aligns with the broader concept of hashing, the better it will be perceived, as opposed to being based on "cryptography" which is not only hard to understand but possibly convey a negative perception as if we have something to hide.
my two cents.
Cryptography
is mathematics.
Even if "cryptography" is assumed to mean "encryption", the public should be well aware of the important role of encryption in online commerce and banking.
sure. but when you're explaining how Bitcoin works to an average Joe, its much simpler to say it it based on math where 2+2 always equals 4.
try explaining it using "cryptography". the discussion all of a sudden gets way more complicated to the point of the listener giving up.