The Case Against Cash and Coins in the Post-COVID Era

In the post-COVID era, it is increasingly clear that cash and coins are not only inconvenient but also unhygienic. The pandemic has heightened our awareness of hygiene and the need to minimize contact with potentially contaminated surfaces. Cash, which changes hands frequently, can harbor viruses and bacteria, making it a vector for disease transmission.

From a freedom perspective, business owners and individuals are entitled to prefer whatever payment method they choose. If someone wants to use or require cash payments, they are free to do so. However, from an intellectual and common-sense standpoint, the advantages of digital payments far outweigh the use of physical currency in today’s technologically advanced world.

The Efficiency and Hygiene of Digital Payments

With the proliferation of smartphones and wearable technology, almost anyone can use their devices as smart wallets. Digital payment methods like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and others offer a seamless and efficient transaction process. Personally, I use Apple Pay by simply double-tapping the bar on my watch and hovering my wrist over the card reader. This process takes merely seconds and significantly reduces the risk of germ transmission compared to handling cash or cards.

Despite the convenience of digital payments, many people are still unaware of these options and continue to rely on traditional wallets. This involves taking out a wallet, scanning a card, waiting for the transaction to go through, and then putting the card and wallet back. This cumbersome process can be entirely avoided with digital payments.

The Future of Payments

To improve their quality of life, individuals should consider carrying a small amount of cash for emergencies but primarily use their devices for payments. The benefits of this shift are numerous:

• Hygiene: Reduces the handling of potentially contaminated cash and coins.

• Speed: Digital transactions are faster and more efficient.

• Convenience: No need to carry a bulky wallet; just a smartphone or smartwatch you’re already carrying!

Conclusion

As we continue to navigate the post-COVID world, adopting digital payments is not just a matter of convenience but also a public health consideration. While everyone is free to choose their preferred payment method, the advantages of digital transactions are clear. Embracing this technology can lead to a cleaner, faster, and more efficient way of handling money.