Money as a Person

by Richard C. Raynard, Ph.D.

Licensed Clinical Psychologist

If corporations can have personhood, why not money?

We all have a relation with money.  If you are kid saving up for anew baseball mitt, it is a ticket to fun. If you have borrowed money to go to college, it's an investment in yourself. If you are making barely enough for basics for your family, money is a comfort and security. If you are truly impoverished, money rescues your very life.

What's enough?

Let's admit it, you keep careful watch over your money. You always know where it is, even when you have forgot birthdays, jewelry and other precious things. And your relationship is ongoing, as you keep track of all its ups and downs. You have a relationship with money.

Money has many personalities.  It can be all-mighty and powerful, an ogre that directs dynasties and nations, who measure and weigh it in so many economic terms. For those who win the lottery, it can be a giddy teenager who urges you into all kinds of reckless gamuts (it takes about 2 years to spend it all).  Money can be a social charmer, opening all kinds of doors, ensuring your social standing.

In greed, money finds a real home.  It promises the whole world and is so attractive, you never can get enough of it. It promises security, status, power, attractiveness, great toys, trophy wives and more.But, sorry, this money personality gradually takes over, as it wants your undivided attention. It claims you.

 

For the psychopathology of greed, see A. Kipnis, The Midas Complex, 2013.

Yet, for all its chameleon forms, money can be a good friend. It always stands by the balanced person to help form plans, get help, help others, make good choices, and come through in all the ups and downs of life. This money personality listens to you and honors your most heart-felt wishes.

The Supreme Court doesn't have to grant personhood to money. It already has many personalities.

What's your relationship to money?

About Dr. Raynard

Dr. Richard Raynard is a licensed clinical psychologist with 35 years experience resolving a broad range of emotional problems. As a cognitive-behavioral therapist who has specialized in anxiety and phobic disorders since 1980, he has spent the last 35 years fulfilling his life-long desire to explore and define the true purpose of emotions and how people can easily use emotions to create meaning and satisfaction in their lives. Dr. Raynard's series of books on emotions can be found on Amazon.com. His other books include Don't Panic, and Anxiety & Panic Medications.