I’m not particularly interested in exact equality, it’s illusory, I am interested in narrower gaps as in the recent book The Spirit Level. My view is classically scientific, we just have to experiment with alternative and complementary currencies until the ‘right’ fire is lit from the tinder. Of course, the ‘wrong’ fire may be lit, I think bitcoin is probably an example as are the local currencies that are 100% convertible and pegged to the national currency. However, as you have said, somewhere above, all these serve at least as thought experiments and educational exercises. Onwards and upwards, at least that’s what we would hope!

Jct: This problem only occurs in systems where someone must go negative before someone else can go positive. It doesn’t happen in Ithaca Hours where everyone starts with a positive. Also, consignment stores where members may drop off goods for sale carry the negative while the members walk out with the positive so this effect again is reduced. Anyway, people who give up because they don’t like owing aren’t in enough financial trouble yet, that’s all.

“Linton has something called LETSplay”

Jct: It teaches people how to trade with new chips, not how to run the poker chips.

“I was a professional gambler for a number of years,”

Jct: I still am after 35 years and I’m still astounded how people who understand how poker chips work forget the moment you call it money.