Money is one of the most important inventions in human history. It has enabled the exchange of goods and services, the accumulation of wealth, the measurement of value, and the payment of debts. Money has also influenced the development of culture, politics, religion, science, and technology. But what is money, and how did it come to be? How has money changed over time, and what are its functions in today's society? These are some of the questions that this book will explore.
The premise and purpose of this book is to provide a comprehensive and accessible overview of the history and functions of money, from its origins in ancient civilizations to its current forms and uses in the modern world. The book will examine how money has evolved from natural objects to coins, paper, and digital currencies, and how it has facilitated trade, commerce, and innovation. The book will also analyze how money has affected various aspects of human life, such as social relations, power dynamics, moral values, and psychological well-being. The book will also discuss the challenges and opportunities that money poses for the future, such as inflation, deflation, financial crises, crypto currencies, and alternative systems.
The concept of money is not easy to define, as different cultures and times have used different forms and meanings of money. However, a general definition of money is any asset that serves as a medium of exchange, a store of value, and a unit of account. A medium of exchange is something that can be used to buy or sell goods and services. A store of value is something that can be saved and used later. A unit of account is something that can be used to measure the value or price of goods and services. These are the three main functions of money that this book will focus on.
The role of money in human society is complex and multifaceted. Money can be seen as a tool, a symbol, a social construct, a cultural artifact, a legal institution, a political instrument, a religious object, a scientific phenomenon, or a psychological factor. Money can also be seen as a source of happiness or misery, freedom or oppression, cooperation or conflict, creativity or stagnation. Money can inspire love or hate, trust or fear, generosity or greed. Money can shape our identities, values, beliefs, attitudes, behaviors, emotions, and relationships. Money can also influence our environment, health, education, art, science, technology, and culture.
This book will explore these various aspects of money in human society in an engaging and informative way. It will draw on insights from various disciplines such as economics⁶, history¹, anthropology, sociology, psychology, philosophy, and others. It will also use examples from different countries and regions around the world to illustrate the diversity and similarity of money across cultures and times. The book will aim to provide the reader with a deeper understanding of money and its impact on human life. This will go a long way in show the numerous options that one has in a cashless society. But it importantly it will re-echoed the need for a cashless society. The book is a must read for everyone.