This collection which represents a move toward a better understanding of the ancient people's attempts at situating economic life within particular societies. Some of the topics covered include a social and economical analysis of ancient, pre-State Greece; of the classical Maya; the Maori women and slaves; of rural India; rural Kentucky; and of pre-industrial Japan.

Using ecological, historical, humanist, institutionalist, and Marxist methodologies, Duncan argues that the entire project of developing the theory of political economy has been seriously sidetracked by industrialism. Using England as a case study he shows that the relationship between modernity and agriculture need not be uncomfortable and suggests ways in which the original socialist project can be rejuvenated to make it both more feasible and more attractive. Duncan concludes that no sustainable human future can be conceived unless and until the centrality of agriculture is properly recognized and new economic institutions are developed that will encourage people to take care of their landscapes.