Temples of Enterprise

Focusing on the origins of Western economic structures, this collection of twelve articles explores the development of money, markets, land tenure, and enterprise in the ancient Near East, specifically within temples and palaces. Drawing from insights gained during five international colloquia, the volume challenges modern economic orthodoxy by highlighting the stark differences in archaic social values and policies during the Bronze Age economic expansion from 3500-1200 BC. It sheds light on the complexities of early economic organization and its implications for contemporary understanding.