Foundations of economics, explained clearly and with real-world relevance.
This edition walks you through what money is, how it functions in exchanges, and why governments shape money and taxation. It also frames how economic history informs current practice, making theory feel relevant to today’s finance and policy debates.
This book introduces the four main functions of money, from enabling trade to serving as a store of value. It explains how coinage works, why different forms of money exist, and what “legal tender” means. You’ll see why money matters for prices, payments, and global exchange, all tied to practical examples and plain language.
Key topics you’ll encounter include how governments manage money and taxes, the pros and cons of various revenue sources, and how revenue systems affect individuals and communities. The text also surveys the evolution of taxation, public finance, and the balance between national, state, and local needs.
- Clear definitions of money and its four key roles
- How money is produced, recognized, and regulated
- The relationship between money, prices, and exchange
- Public finance concepts, including taxation and government revenue
- A survey of economic history to connect past and present
Ideal for readers of introductory economics, students preparing for courses in public finance, and anyone seeking a solid, accessible overview of money, taxation, and economic history.