Jude Wanniski, an advisor to Steve Forbes, preaches the traditional view. A gold standard keeps economic expansion in check and limits a rise in the standard of living. Furthermore, at current population levels, there isn't enough gold on the planet for the gold standard to work. Yet international interest in gold suggests that it still has a role in economic matters. Business leaders are learning how hard it is to find a common denominator of trust.
Gold is the one currency everyone believes in.
Although conditions rule against a fixed, legislated gold standard, gold may grow ever deeper roots as a shadow world currency. And, happily, there are signs that some people hold on to old dreams. I almost bought one.