Great response! Franciso d’Anconia’s has an interesting viewpoint on the power of an individual's financial status. As you outlined, for those who highly value materialistic gain, money provides satisfaction in its ability to exchange for goods and services at will. While many do not invest themselves completely in common commodities, they will use them as a measuring stick. As you mentioned in both of your responses,
I view her quote meaning it is as individuals who believe that money can buy happiness, that money is the final answer to all problems and conflicts, and that money is a substitute for all those who attempt to ignore their values and beliefs in favor of materialistic gains.
When I say abuse money, I mean trading it in for things that may not be necessary, however again even though it might not be necessary to myself or others, it all comes back down to the value it holds to that person who is willing to make an exchange for it.
I understand your thought process, but I slightly disagree with your interpretation. While yes, ultimately, the true value of any item comes from the eye of the purchaser, I would argue that in the long run all purchases that bring happiness are necessary. In Rand’s quote, he does not dispute the importance of money. Instead, he outlines that those who are fortunate enough to have it, can properly measure the trust cost of satisfaction. Because capitalism and the entire world’s economic system is based around currency, those in possession of large amounts of capital dramatically increase their exchange power. This purchasing power carries a domino effect throughout their lives. Wealthy individuals can trade their funds for a lap of luxury. They can exchange them for nice homes, cars and other luxurious items that will provide their families with advantages over less fortunate ones. Because all these items factor into one’s happiness, I do not believe any of them to be unnecessary.
However, I agree with your second stance regarding the true value of a dollar not being in its price points but rather its exchange value. Whether it be in established retailers, local stores, or personal purchases between two individuals, for an exchange to occur the two opposing parties must find equal footing. If one side does not equally value a dollar, it will be challenging to dictate a fair barter.
In the end, I believe a vast majority do not view their funds as a replacement for their core values, but rather an illustration of their distinctiveness. This is why I argue in my response, that the true merit of all capital lies in its ability to highlight our individuality. Money gives us the ability to trade for what we desire most. Some decide to keep it basic with food and shelter, others can choose to be much more luxurious.