Contents 
Preface 
x: 
Chapter 1 
The Concept of Ownership 
Two Approaches 1 
The General Notion 3 
Origins of Private Property 
An Ancient Notion Prevails 8 
Exploring Patristic Thought 10 
Chapter 2 
Roman Law Theory and Practice of Ownership 
Influence of Roman Law 14 
Beginnings 16 
Nature of Ownership and Property Distinctions 19 
From Land Ownership to Slave Ownership 22 
Socioeconomic Conditions in the Patristic Age 25 
Resistance, Resignation, Decline 30 
Chapter 3 
Clement of Alexandria: The Koinonic Goal 
The Texts 35 
I. Autarkeia, or Self-Sufficiency, As a Purpose of 
Property 35 
2. Koinonia As a Purpose of Property 
3. Limits of the Use of Wealth 42 
4. All Wealth a Gift to All 43 
Summary 45 
14 
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