Jacob Needleman provides insight on human nature with regard
to money. Through his commentary the reader is prompted to examine “the forces
affecting culture” and the relationship between money and spirituality. Money
is an abstract concept. It is everything we base our society off but at the
same time it is nothing more than an idea we humans have created to allow
exchange to occur more seamlessly. Needleman hopes that “ownership of property could
provide a base of material security necessary for pursuit of more spiritual
goals.” Humans have necessities to live and once those necessities are taken
care of, Needleman believes there is more opportunity to achieve higher levels
of fulfillment.
This interview also further discusses the idea that passion
and interests drive actions. Passions on the one hand are “violent egoistic
impulses” and often lead to “social destruction” while interests have more to
do with “stability, property, possessions, and bourgeois values.” Through
money, our society is able to balance these driving forces. It is important for
each individual to analyze his or her attitude towards money. One should not
become consumed by the idea that they must gather as much money as possible.
Instead, money should be used as an “instrument of love” and an “instrument of
service” to allow people to find happiness within their own means.
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