In keeping with the dual nature of the monetary relationship, crises may take on two polar-opposite forms: the resurgence of either centralising or fragmenting trends. Both also upset the fragile balance that the hierarchised system has brought about. But, contrary to what a casual inspection...

This book endeavours to throw light on the phenomenon of money in general in an essentially comparative and therefore concrete way and not from a universalist, dogmatic and abstract standpoint. To do this, it apprehends monetary relations within the particular society to which they belong.