A History of Greek Economic Thought

This study reevaluates Greek economic theory by situating thinkers within their economic environment and comparing their humanitarian perspectives with modern concerns. Organized chronologically, it surveys pre-Platonic ideas and detailed treatments of Plato, Xenophon, the orators, Aristotle, and later schools, analyzing their views on value, wealth, production, money, exchange, population, and distribution. Special attention is paid to agriculture, capital, labor including division of labor and slavery, and to debates over interest, tariffs, and the moral limits of acquisition. It examines communistic and socialistic proposals alongside critics' reactions, and contrasts household-focused oikonomia with public economy. The conclusion assesses the scope and influence of Greek economic thought, arguing that ethical concerns often shaped economic prescriptions and that accurate interpretation requires understanding contemporary conditions.