“This is a thoughtful and original exploration that rehabilitates Greek economic expertise as a branch of philosophical inquiry as well as practice. Arguing that ancient Greek economic life was focused on conserving and preserving—a part of guardianship in Plato, in fact, but equally central to Xenophon—Helmer traces the dynamic interplay between politics, ethics, and economics across a wide range of Greek texts in a profoundly instructive way.”

Melissa Lane, Princeton University

“With this excellent new book, Helmer provides the best presentation of the philosophical concept of oikonomia in the ancient world. Oikonomia is clearly written, well organized, and well argued, and the translation itself is smooth and nuanced. This work will be essential reading for philosophers, ancient historians, and specialists in the history of economic thought.”

Alain Bresson, University of Chicago