Money and Society: A Critical Companion

Money is a social, intangible institution that does the world. This book explores its origins in early societies, its liaison with finance, contemporary politics, and its monetary constitution of modern society. It demonstrates that money matters because it embodies social relations and criticizes the simplistic exchange paradigm of standard economics and rational choice theory.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 20 November 2020
Publisher: Pluto Press

This comprehensive and critical introduction to the sociology of money delves into a wide range of topics, from the very beginnings of money to its crucial role in modern society. While our coins, banknotes, and electronic tokens serve as means of exchange, it is important to recognize that money is, in essence, a social, intangible institution. This book compellingly argues that money indeed reigns supreme in the world.

Beginning with an exploration of the origins of money in early societies and amidst the first civilizations, the book proceeds to examine the intricate relationship between money and finance, including the workings of financial markets. It then turns to the contemporary politics of money, discussing monetary experiments and reform initiatives such as Bitcoin and positive money. Finally, the book unveils the fundamentally monetary constitution of modern society itself.

By critiquing the simplistic exchange paradigm of standard economics and rational choice theory, the book demonstrates that money matters because it embodies social relations. It sheds light on the complex ways in which money shapes our lives, relationships, and economies, challenging our assumptions and providing a deeper understanding of the power and significance of money in our modern world.

Weight: 196g
Dimension: 136 x 214 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780745341965