He argues that because the ancients placed so much emphasis on status, which heavily regulated what commercial activities was acceptable for those in the upper orders and well as the lower ones, their economy differed from any modern economy where everyone was free and able to participate in whatever legal commercial enterprise. Finley also discusses the institution of slavery which was very prominent in the ancient world. The relationship between master and slave was complex and even among slaves, there was a diversity of societal rankings.
He contends that because ancient societies placed significant importance on status, which heavily regulated what commercial activities were permissible for those in both high and low positions, their economy differed from any modern economy where everyone had the freedom to participate in any legal business enterprise. Finley also discusses slavery as a prominent institution in ancient times. The relationship between master and slave was complex, even among slaves, there was diversity of social rankings.