Economics

Aristotle. Metaphysics; Oeconomica and Magna Moralia. Armstrong, George Cyril, editor. London: William Heinemann Ltd.; Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press, 1935 (printing).

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Cloned and adapted by Humanitext, with ongoing edits.

"Economics" (Oikonomika) is a treatise that explores the theory and practice of household management (oikonomia), which is considered the foundational unit of the state. The first book discusses the differences between household management and politics, and outlines the moral and practical aspects of organizing a household, focusing on the relationships between husband and wife, the management of slaves, and the acquisition of wealth through agriculture. It systematically explains the mutual duties of spouses, the proper treatment of slaves, and the four key functions of a manager: acquisition, preservation, organization, and usage. The second book shifts the focus to broader financial administration, dividing economy into four types—royal, satrapic, civic, and personal. It then presents a vast collection of historical anecdotes detailing the ingenious, and often cunning, strategies and ploys used by various rulers and city-states to raise funds in times of crisis. Ultimately, the work offers a comprehensive view of ancient economic reality, ranging from ethical domestic cooperation to pragmatic state finance.