ABSTRACT
The purpose of this chapter is to show how the symbolization of money alters economic calculations and distorts economic rationality. First I will provide a suitable, if unconventional, definition of rationality as a standard against which to measure the effects of money symbolism. After a brief discussion of the common idea of money as a neutral sign, whose only function is to facilitate transactions, I will review studies of popular attitudes towards and beliefs about money that reveal eleven ways whereby the symbolization of money influences economic rationality. A concluding section will analyze the more general influence of money symbolism on economic thinking and behavior.
