Yup. I too used to think the same way as the GP. But then I realized that most of society’s advancements in the west started with two things. Technological advancements, and fiat currency. No one takes any risks when you’re risking a finite resource like gold. And having that money available has been put the great use for technological advancements that pay everyone back down the road.

If, and when the system collapses, who cares? Advancements gained through technology will be with us.