The Lost Science of Money

The Lost Science of Money examines the history and nature of monetary systems across human civilization. Through historical analysis spanning ancient times to the modern era, Stephen Zarlenga challenges conventional economic theories about the origins and purpose of money. The book investigates how different societies have conceived of and implemented monetary systems, from ancient temples to modern central banks. It traces the development of metal coinage, paper currency, and banking while examining pivotal moments when monetary innovations transformed economies and societies. Zarlenga documents the ongoing tension between private and public control of money creation throughout history. The text presents detailed case studies of monetary systems in Rome, Britain, colonial America, and other key periods. At its core, this work argues that money is not a natural market phenomenon but a human invention - a social technology that can either serve or undermine the public interest depending on who controls it. The book frames monetary reform as a crucial issue for modern democracy and economic justice.

Readers describe this as a detailed monetary history book that challenges conventional economic theories about money's origins and nature. Positive reviews focus on: - Research depth and historical documentation - Clear explanations of monetary concepts - Critical analysis of gold standard and private banking - Coverage of ancient monetary systems Common criticisms: - Dense, academic writing style - Repetitive arguments - Some readers question accuracy of certain historical claims - Anti-bank bias perceived by some readers Ratings: Goodreads: 4.3/5 (52 ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (31 ratings) Sample reader comments: "Exhaustive research but could be more concise" - Goodreads reviewer "Changed my understanding of money's role in society" - Amazon reviewer "Too dismissive of opposing viewpoints" - Goodreads reviewer "Charts and illustrations help explain complex concepts" - Amazon reviewer According to multiple reviews, the book requires focused reading but rewards careful study of its historical analysis and monetary theory arguments.

The History of Money by Glyn Davies A comprehensive examination of monetary systems from ancient times through modern banking, with focus on the societal and political implications of currency evolution.

Web of Debt by Ellen Brown An investigation into the private control of monetary systems and central banking's influence on global economics.

The Creature from Jekyll Island by G. Edward Griffin A detailed account of the Federal Reserve's creation and its impact on the American monetary system.

Money: The Unauthorized Biography by Felix Martin A historical analysis of money as a social technology and its role in shaping civilization.

The Ascent of Money by Niall Ferguson A chronological exploration of financial history from ancient Mesopotamia to modern global markets, with emphasis on money's role in political power structures.

📚 Published in 2002, this 700+ page work took Zarlenga 12 years of research to complete, drawing from over 800 historical sources. 💡 The author founded the American Monetary Institute (AMI) in 1996, a non-profit organization dedicated to the independent study of monetary history, theory, and reform. 🏛️ The book challenges the common belief that money originated from barter systems, arguing instead that money emerged from ancient temple societies as a tool of law and social organization. 📜 Zarlenga traces monetary history through 3,000 years, examining how different civilizations - from Ancient Rome to Medieval Europe to Colonial America - used various forms of money to build or destroy their societies. 🔄 The work proposes the "American Monetary Act," a reform plan that would transfer the power of money creation from private banks to the U.S. Treasury, similar to proposals made by America's founding fathers.