The quote by Niall Ferguson in "The Ascent of Money" highlights the profound relationship between financial progress and human advancement. It suggests that the development of monetary systems and financial knowledge has directly contributed to the evolution of societies and civilizations. As humans organized commerce and trade through money, they created structures that allowed for greater collaboration and growth, leading to technological and cultural advancements.

Ferguson's work emphasizes the historical significance of finance in shaping human history. By tracing the evolution of money, he illustrates how financial innovations have driven exploration, investment, and economic expansion. Ultimately, the ascent of money is portrayed not just as a series of economic events, but as a fundamental element in the narrative of human progress itself.