Slavery, a practice that has existed in various forms throughout human history, was always a subject of significant ethical debate. In ancient civilizations, slavery was not only an economic and social institution but also deeply intertwined with the moral and philosophical frameworks of the time. Understanding the ethics of slavery in these early societies requires an examination of the cultural, religious, and philosophical beliefs that shaped attitudes toward slavery, as well as an analysis of the social structures that sustained it. So how did different cultures rationalize or oppose the practice? But more importantly, how did these perspectives evolve over time? An Era of Different Worldviews: The Concept of Slavery in Ancient Civilizations For millennia, slavery in ancient civilizations was a complex institution, varying significantly across regions and cultures. The ancient Near East, Egypt, Greece, Rome, and other civilizations all practiced slavery, but their justifications and ethical views differed greatly. In general, slavery was considered a natural part of society, with slaves often viewed as property rather than individuals with rights. This perception was supported by religious, legal, and philosophical frameworks that sought to justify the subjugation of one group of people by another. Read moreSection: NewsGeneralHistory & ArchaeologyHistoryAncient TraditionsPremiumPreviewRead Later