In the plethora of programmes about the credit crunch it was very refreshing to watch a programme on Channel 4 entitled ‘the ascent of money’. Rather than simply re-examining the issues and reasons behind the current financial turmoil, it looked at the history of money through the ages, the development of banks and the importance of debt and finance to the growth and functioning of world trade. Some interesting parallels were drawn between the basics of banking in the middle ages and some recent banking practices. This was the first in a series but well worth an hour of your time  

To view the programme click here