Product Description

Technical progress, economic growth, productivity, even efficiency have not been significant goals since the beginning of time, "declares M.I. Finley in his classic work. The states of the ancient Mediterranean world had not recognizable real-property market, never fought a commercially inspired war, witnessed no drive to capital formation, and assigned the management of many substantial enterprise to slaves and ex-slaves. In short, to study the economies of the ancient world, one must begin by discarding many premises that seemed self-evident before Finley showed that they were useless or misleading.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #344134 in Books
• Published on: 1999-03-19
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 298 pages

Customer Reviews

The Ancient Economy
Whilst this is a core book for anyone studying the subject standby for a heavy going journey through the subject. This chap was an excellent scholar and his theory has stood the test of time. Unfortunately it is not easy to read if you do not have a strong background in classical history. That said, if you do make the effort and read it all then you will undoubtedly have a greater understanding of the subject. I have given this book three stars as it was so hard to read and not because the content was found wanting. It should definitely be on your bookshelf if you study archaeology or history.