Suppose you have a checkbook that allows you to write as many checks as you wish for any amount you desire. There is no need to worry about the balance in your account, and the checks will always be cashed, no matter how much you spend. Of course, no person has an account like this, but the Federal Reserve, our nation's central bank, very nearly does.
Skim recent newspapers for references to policies of the Federal Reserve. List terms you don't understand. Jot down their definitions as you read this chapter.