Credit or debit cards, for starters, are nothing short of shoppers' Novocain. Even in the age of digital purchases and virtual money, we still attach a special value to dirty paper with pictures of presidents on it. Handing some of that to a cashier simply hurts more than handing over a little sliver of plastic.
The author, Jeffrey Kluger, compares the use of physical currency to the numbing effect of Novocain, highlighting the psychological impact of handing over cash versus using credit or debit cards. He notes that even in the digital age, people still have a special attachment to physical money, making the act of paying with cash more painful.
The quote emphasizes the emotional connection people have with physical currency, suggesting that the act of paying with cash can be a more personal and intimate experience than using digital payment methods.
The quote does not provide specific historical context, but it can be seen as a commentary on the changing nature of commerce and the role of physical currency in modern society.
Jeffrey Kluger is a journalist and author who has written for various publications, including Time magazine. He has also written several books on science, history, and popular culture.
The quote can be seen as a commentary on the psychological impact of different payment methods, and how they can affect our spending habits and financial decisions.