It was found that micro-organisms like spit or mucus can be manipulated to react to electric waves. Inspired by the combination of biology and digital technology, Raphael designs a new, intimate, and direct form of currency using our spit, mucus, and boogers for monetary transactions.
As our spit becomes a living currency, our daily and intimate interactions with one another would also be recorded digitally like a bank statement. But still, the argument for this proposal is that it would combine the security regulations of both DNA protection and digital protection. This would allow the individual to have full control and security of their money without an organizational intermediary.
It’s a thought-provoking speculative design that earned the Future of Money Design Awards in 2015. It reminds us to literally and metaphorically ‘put your money where your mouth is’ and spend responsibly as you would probably have to kiss or spit at strangers to complete a transaction. Indeed, Peck As You Go would be a revolutionary system that allows the individual complete control. But it would most definitely disrupt our conventional norms and values regarding spitting and kissing.
You may find a further elaboration on Raphael Kim’s Peck As You Go in his website.