Contributions

  • Brenner, Gabrielle A. - Contributor
  • Brown, Aaron, 1956- - Contributor

Publication

2008 - New York : Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, England

Language

English

Word Count

84,750 words, Guess

Page Count

339 pages

Identifiers

and 2 more
  • LibraryThing6088463
  • Goodreads4145649

Classifications

  • DDC306.4/82
  • LCCHB615 .B733 2008

Description

Although financial markets often try to distance themselves from gambling, the two factors have far more in common than usually thought. When, historically, there were no financial institutions such as banks, lotteries constituted the ways by which expensive items were disposed of, and governments raised money quickly. Gambling tables fulfilled roles that venture capital and banking do today. "Gamblers" created clearinghouses and sustained liquidity. When those gamblers bet on price distributions in futures markets, they were redefined as "speculators". Today they are called "hedge fund managers" or "bankers". Though the names have changed, the actions undertaken have essentially stayed the same. This book shows how discussion on "chance", "risk", "gambling", "insurance", and "speculation" illuminates where societies stood, where we are today, and where we may be heading.

Subjects

Other Editions

  • A world of chance: betting on religion, games, Wall StreetNew York : Cambridge University Press2008-01-01

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