III

Economy and Society

In the field of economic history, investigation covers topics such as the production, processing, and commercial distribution of goods; the production and circulation of coins at both local and supra-local levels; and economies of both small and large scale. In the social sphere, research focuses on the study of social structures, identities, and behaviors through prosopographical analysis. Additionally, economy and society are examined in conjunction, by exploring economically-related issues with strong social dimensions (e.g., hunger and famine), and by employing modern methodological tools such as network theory and Geographic Information Systems (GIS).

Economic and social phenomena: A reciprocal relationship

Diachronically, the relationship between economic and social phenomena has remained close and mutually interactive. The economy is a fundamental aspect of any human society, as it does not operate in isolation but is embedded within the social relationships, institutions, and values of each era. Throughout antiquity, economic changes triggered social reforms, shaped roles, power structures, and ways of life, and, conversely, social pressures created new economic conditions, driving economies to adapt or undergo reform. This reciprocal dynamic is a key engine in the historical evolution of human societies.

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Coin production and circulation

In the ancient world, just like today, most states, whether small city-states, federations of cities, or kingdoms, issued their own coinage, which was valid within the territory of the issuing authority. Coins, however, travelled with the people who carried them—soldiers, merchants, athletes, or pilgrims—and could be found in distant regions far beyond their original zone of circulation. Moreover, certain coinages of dominant states functioned as international currencies—Plato refers to them as νόμισμα ἑλληνικόν—and were used in international transactions.

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Networks

The study of ancient networks represents a major new direction in contemporary approaches to ancient history and constitutes a methodological breakthrough in our field. Through the framework of Social Network Analysis (SNA), the study of ancient networks explores the structure of various types of relationships—economic, political, religious, cultural, social, interpersonal, and more. The specialization of members of the Section of Greek and Roman Antiquity in prosopography, epigraphy, and numismatics positions us at the forefront of research into ancient networks.

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