A World of Chance: Betting on Religion, Games, Wall Street (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9780521711579)

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.

Author: Reuven Brenner,Gabrielle A. Brenner
ISBN-10: 0521711576
ISBN-13: 9780521711579
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Language: English
Published: 08/04/2008
Pages: 358
Format: Paperback
Weight: 1.20lbs
Size: 9.00h x 6.00w x 1.00d