Introducing students to contemporary controversies over the nature of the ancient economy, this volume brings together 12 studies in the field. In 1973, Moses Finlay unveiled a comprehensive model of the economic underpinnings of classical civilizations. Since then, scholars have turned the study of the ancient economy into an academic battleground. In the last few years of the 20th century, a growing number of scholars have however aimed to move the debate beyond partisan controversies. This study takes account of these developments.