Originally published in 1970, this book examines the origins of social organizations, the development of Robinson Crusoe economies and the conception of property or rightful ownership, as well as the origins of agriculture, race and class.

Originally published in 1970, this book examines the origins of social organizations, the development of Robinson Crusoe economies and the conception of property or rightful ownership, as well as the origins of agriculture, race and class. Discussing commerce and the nation state, capitalist expansion and war between industrial power, the book is a concise yet comprehensive survey of the evolution of the structures of the world's economies and of the ideas which underlie them.

'...a very clever presentation of her arguments and shows how clearly Joan Robinson can translate from an abstract domain to a more familiar and colourful set of images.' Prue Kerr, University of Adelaide