The Power of Play

CHAPTER 9MOTIVATIONS

Why did we choose money as the primary motivator for work?

This question takes us on a journey through time, exploring the origins of monetary compensation and its impact on motivation. From ancient civilizations to modern societies, the allure of money has shaped our perception of work and its rewards.

In ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt, dating back to around 3000 BC, we find early indications of money being used as payment for labor. The Sumerians employed the “barley standard,” paying workers in standardized amounts of barley that could be exchanged for other goods and services. Similarly, the Egyptians used a currency called “shat,” which held value in grains and provided workers with the means to acquire essentials like food, clothing, and housing.

Money's role as a motivator for work operates at both the neurological and behavioral levels, requiring an exploration of the biological foundations of reward systems and the societal constructs that shape our behavior.

At the neurological level, we uncover the influence of dopamine, a neurotransmitter central to the brain's reward system. When we anticipate or receive a reward, such as money, dopamine is released in key brain regions, creating a pleasurable sensation and reinforcing the behaviors that led to the reward. Moreover, the prefrontal cortex, responsible for higher‐order cognitive functions, plays a vital role in motivation. It becomes activated when we perceive money as a means to achieve desired ...