The economy is one of the most important aspects in worldbuilding . After all, money makes the world go round, right? But, crafting a believable and engaging economy for your fictional world can be a tricky task.
Political System
First things first, it's essential to determine the type of economy your world has. Will it be a barter system? A capitalist system? A socialist system? This decision will greatly impact the way your characters interact with each other and the world around them.
Resources
Next, consider the resources available in your world. What do your characters have access to and what do they lack? This will determine what goods are in high demand and what industries will thrive. For example, if your world is abundant in coal, then the mining industry will likely be a major player in the economy.
Class Structures
It's also important to think about the different class structures that may exist in your world. Who holds the power and who is at the bottom rung of the ladder? How does this affect the economy and the distribution of wealth?
As the famous economist, John Maynard Keynes, once said,
"The avoidance of taxes is the only intellectual pursuit that carries any reward."
And in a world where the ruling class holds a stranglehold on the economy, the lower classes may go to great lengths to avoid paying taxes to them.
One of the most critical parts of worldbuilding is making sure that everything ties together seamlessly. The economy is no exception. It should fit in with the laws, culture, and technology of your world. For example, if your world has a strict caste system, it's unlikely that social mobility and entrepreneurship would be a big part of the economy.
In short, building an economy for your fictional world requires a lot of thought and consideration. It's not just about making up a bunch of numbers, it's about creating a living, breathing system that feels real and believable to your readers. So, take your time and have fun with it.
