Masters in Business At The Money: Paul Vigna explains "What is Money?"
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Aug 6, 2025 
Paul Vigna, a seasoned reporter for The Wall Street Journal with over 25 years of experience, dives into the intriguing world of money. He discusses how money is more than just physical bills, serving as a social construct with deep historical roots. Vigna examines the essential role of trust, especially during crises like the Great Depression, and how belief systems have shaped perceptions of wealth. He also highlights FDR's efforts to restore confidence in the banking system and the evolving nature of money in society.
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Money as a Human-Made System
- Money is not a tangible thing but a system humans invented to track societal resources.
- The pursuit of money has mythologized it into a seemingly real entity in our collective belief.
Money's Religious Origins
- Money is a product of religion, originating from Mesopotamian temples to track possessions.
- Our historical ties between money, gods, and religious belief shape our modern emotional response to money.
Temples, Gods, and Money
- Ancient cities like Ur revolved around temples, with life focused on pleasing gods.
- Wealth and money symbolized divine favor, influencing early societal structures and our current view of money.
