Niall Ferguson's book, "The Ascent of Money: A Financial History of the World," explores the evolution of finance throughout history, emphasizing how financial systems have shaped societies. Through various case studies, he illustrates the intricate relationships between economics and politics, shedding light on the consequences of financial decisions and policies. The narrative suggests that understanding money is crucial for comprehending broader historical events.

The quote "those who live by the tort, die by the tort" encapsulates the idea that individuals or entities that thrive in a system based on faulty legal or financial practices are ultimately vulnerable to its repercussions. This reflects a broader theme in the book: that financial practices can lead to both prosperity and calamity, and those who exploit these systems must be prepared for potential downfall as circumstances change.