Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
5068682 | Explorations in Economic History | 2016 | 29 Pages |
Abstract
Was the Roman world caught in a Malthusian trap? In this survey, I draw on a wide range of evidence - from archeological data to city size estimates - to argue that Malthusian constraints were not binding over long periods. Market-size effects allowed the Roman economy to grow substantially in per capita terms, despite population growth. I place these observations in the context of recent debates and contributions by both ancient historians and - for the long run - by economists.
Related Topics
Social Sciences and Humanities
Arts and Humanities
History
Authors
Paul Erdkamp,