Inflation is mainly a monetary phenomenon, but it has important consequences on the real economy, mainly because the price system does not meet anymore its role of proper allocation of resources. In this respect, lately, in most of the developed countries, the inflation process started to be kept under control by the monetary authorities, leading thus to the feeling that stability has been achieved for the purchasing power of money. However, this may not be the entire picture as one can still observe difficulties for people to acquire goods and services and to satisfy their needs, which are in a continuous development and transformation. Therefore, the relative stable price does not necessarily translate into a higher purchasing power. Why is this happening and which is the underlying process of this so called “illusion of low inflation”? This article tries to provide some thoughts on the cultural changes of modern society, in terms of economic and spiritual values, and on the related impact of such changes to the needs (real or perceived) and on the choices people make. On the other hand, looking into the future, we can see big challenges, such as the cashless society and the continuous economic and social integration, i.e. the global village. Would these developments impact the current policy of controlling inflation? For sure they do and the Romanian society should be well prepared at least by knowing the opportunities and the threats that will arise thereon.