The inner world of money

Abstract

Money, as Roman Abramovich demonstrates, can be shown off in extravagant ways, but it can also play a more silent role in our relationships, in our work, and the way we make decisions. However, there are many people who downplay the significance of money in their lives. Some even seem to be afraid of it. A typical reaction, when I ask executives why they work so hard is: “I want you to know that the reason I work 50, 60, or 70 hours a week isn’t for the money.” When I ask them what their hard work is really all about, I get responses like, “It’s about the challenge,” or “I am trying to change the nature of the industry,” or more dramatically, “I am trying to change the world and make it a better place.” It is a rare individual who admits that he or she likes the feel of money; I suspect because to say so explicitly would be rather like expressing an overt interest in sex.