Important works
The rule of money
Karl-Heinz Brodbeck's The Rule of Money analyzes the fundamental structures and mechanisms of money from an interdisciplinary perspective. His approach combines economics, philosophy, psychology and Buddhist thought to question the central role of money in modern society. Brodbeck criticizes the common view that money is a neutral medium of exchange and shows how profoundly it influences human perception, culture and social relationships.
A central idea of the book is that money has no objective reality, but is a cultural projection. It only exists because people believe in it and base their actions on it. This illusion gives money an apparent power that permeates all areas of life. Brodbeck calls this the "illusory objectivity of money": it creates abstract standards that rationalize economic action but suppress human values and needs.
For Brodbeck, money becomes the driving force behind the growth compulsion of the modern economy. This compulsion, which is based on the dynamics of credit and interest, leads to ecological destruction, social inequality and the alienation of people from their natural environment. For Brodbeck, the idea of infinite growth is a fallacy that must be overcome not only economically, but also culturally and spiritually.
Another central theme is the psychological dimension of money. Brodbeck argues that money is deeply rooted in human desire. It becomes a symbol of happiness, security and freedom, but at the same time creates dependency and dissatisfaction. This paradox is particularly evident in consumer culture, which is based on the pursuit of more and more without ever offering real fulfillment.
Brodbeck argues for a radical change in the way we think about money. Instead of growth and competition, the economy and society should be geared towards cooperation, sustainability and human scale. A Buddhist-inspired perspective plays a central role here: it calls for seeing through the illusion of money and developing new forms of economic activity that focus on life rather than profit.
Its core theses include:
1. money as an illusion: Brodbeck describes money as a cultural projection and illusion. It only exists because people believe in it and base their reality on it. This projection gives money apparent objectivity and power.
2nd Psychological dimension: For Brodbeck, money is closely linked to human desires. It symbolizes freedom, security and happiness, but in reality it creates dependency and endless dissatisfaction.
3. criticism of the growth imperative: Brodbeck analyzes how money and the credit system create a growth imperative that causes ecological destruction and social inequality.