In her book "Payback: Debt and the Shadow Side of Wealth," Margaret Atwood emphasizes the importance of not just monetary value in a society, but also the significance of generosity and goodwill among its members. She argues that for a social system to thrive and maintain balance, the circulation of good deeds and gifts is essential. This perspective highlights that relationships and community support contribute to the overall health of a society, similar to the flow of money.

Atwood's insight suggests that economic transactions alone cannot sustain a thriving community; rather, it is the interplay of kindness and mutual aid that fosters social cohesion. Just as currency must circulate for economic stability, social goodwill and altruism are crucial for nurturing trust and connection within the community. Without this flow of positive interactions, societal balance may be disrupted, indicating that our sense of value encompasses more than just financial wealth.