The concept of a "parasite economy" has been explored, where money changing hands does not necessarily mean value is being created. This idea is illustrated through personal anecdotes of individuals being swindled or taken advantage of by intermediaries.
For instance, the author recounts a experience where they paid $150 more than necessary for a visa due to using an unofficial website. This experience led the author to wonder about the impact of such parasitic intermediaries on the economy as a whole.
They discovered that these intermediaries, while creating some jobs, do not contribute to the overall productivity of the economy. The money is simply transferred from one person to another, with no net gain or loss to the economy. The author notes that while the economy may not be harmed by these intermediaries, the experience of being taken advantage of can be frustrating and chagrin-inducing for those who realize they have been fooled.
The existence of these parasitic intermediaries raises questions about the nature of value creation and productivity in the economy. The author's experience serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the importance of being aware of potential scams and intermediaries that can take advantage of unsuspecting individuals.