With Filippo Carlà-Uhink (University of Potsdam, Germany)
Studies in ancient economic history are typically founded on the notion of homo oeconomicus central to neoclassical economic theory - namely on the assumption of a rational human being whose behaviour and decisions are oriented towards maximizing profits and minimizing losses. This conception has long been a target of criticism, however, notably from behavioural economists. With specific reference to Roman monetary history (and particularly to the late imperial age), our aim is to review the received interpretations based on this assumption and to suggest new approaches to understanding of coinage in ancient times.
Filippo Carlà-Uhink is a full professor of ancient history at the University of Potsdam in Germany. He graduated in classical languages in Turin and has a PhD in Classical Studies from the University of Udine. He then took up research and various teaching positions at the universities of Heidelberg, Mainz and Exeter, before joining the University of Potsdam in 2018. His main research interests are the monetary and economic systems of the ancient world and the representation of antiquity in contemporary popular culture.