This book, the first of two volumes, examines ancient civilizations to explore the ethical foundations of modern economic systems. The origin of ethical values is analyzed from a historical context and, through investigating the spread of the Aryan civilization from India into the rest of the world, the links between ancient Russia, India, Japan, and Greece are highlighted. By examining the business management in these societies, the development of an ethical system is explained.

This book aims to highlight how trust is fundamental to transactions within an exchange economy. It will be relevant to those interested in economics, development studies, international relations, and global politics.