Debt in the Ancient Mediterranean and Near East: Credit, Money, and Social Obligation ed. by John Weisweiler (review).

The article reviews the book "Debt in the Ancient Mediterranean and Near East: Credit, Money, and Social Obligation" edited by John Weisweiler. The book aims to contribute to the history of ancient credit systems and test the accuracy of David Graeber's theory on debt. The reviewer argues that Graeber's theory, which emphasizes the role of credit and violence in human economic exchange, is contradicted by the evidence presented in the book. The reviewer also criticizes Graeber's understanding of coinage, slavery, and the economy in general. Despite this, the reviewer acknowledges that the individual studies in the book provide valuable insights into the economic, social, and moral aspects of debt. [Extracted from the article]