Frederick Kaufman: Money, Broadway & Wall Street | Tablet

Frederick Kaufman, Tablet Magazine’s money columnist and author of The Money Plot: A History from Shells to Bullion to Bitcoin, examines the historical and cultural forces shaping our understanding of currency.

Kaufman’s function, described as “half fable, half manifesto,” traces the evolution of money from its earliest forms to the complexities of modern finance, including cryptocurrency. The book explores the allegorical narratives and recurring patterns that have defined humanity’s relationship with cash, according to Amazon’s book description.

Published in 2021, The Money Plot arrives amidst a period of increasing interest in and disruption from cryptocurrencies, prompting questions about the very definition of money. Kaufman’s analysis, as highlighted by CNBC, suggests that the current fascination with Bitcoin and other digital currencies may not be as revolutionary as it appears, but rather a continuation of long-standing themes in the history of finance.

Kaufman’s writing for Tablet Magazine focuses on financial matters, building on the historical scope of his book to provide commentary on contemporary economic events. His work aims to unpack the power dynamics inherent in monetary systems and their impact on individuals, and society.