The Origin of Money: Menger vs. Graeber

David Graeber, an influential anthropologist renowned for his critiques of economic theory, delves into the origins of money, challenging traditional economist narratives by Carl Menger and Ludwig von Mises. He emphasizes that money's evolution stems from collective human behavior, rather than a singular invention. The discussion highlights practical examples, like the use of cigarettes as currency in a WWII POW camp, and critiques the barter theory, advocating for a deeper understanding of money’s role in facilitating complex trade.