Counter-economics is when people exchange goods and services without having to use regular money (like dollars or euros). Instead, they trade with each other directly, or through online communities, to get what they need. For example, instead of buying food in a store, you might trade with a friend who grows their own food - they give you some of their vegetables, and you give them something they need in return, such as a haircut or a bike repair. In this way, people can exchange goods and services without using the official 'money' system.