The Complexity of the Roman Empire's Legacy in Historical Context

It is a common refrain to evaluate historical empires through the lens of modern ethical standards, often leading to polarized viewpoints. The Roman Empire is no exception, with its often brutal and expansive nature evoking feelings of judgment and condemnation. However, a more nuanced examination reveals a legacy that, while deeply flawed, also brought significant advancements and stability to the Mediterranean world.

Evil or Not?

Is the Roman Empire evil? This question is complex and cannot be neatly answered. It is true that, like all oligarchies throughout history, the Roman Empire was riddled with corruption and self-interest. Their advancements were often limited to what benefited the oligarchs, and it wasn't until some form of democratic governance emerged that real and sustainable progress was made.

By our current modern standards, the Roman Empire can certainly be seen as an evil institution, particularly in its treatment of slaves and its military conquests. However, it is important to also consider the context of the time. The standard of living and governance arrangements in the Roman Empire were no worse, and in some cases noticeably better, compared to other contemporary civilisations of the Mediterranean region.

The Pax Romana and Its Achievements

One of the most notable achievements of the Roman Empire was the Pax Romana, often known as the 'Roman Peace,' which provided a significant degree of stability and security to its populace. Much of the population enjoyed a level of freedom and security that wasn't replicated until the modern age. The safety and security provided by the Roman Empire allowed hundreds of millions of people to better their lives over nearly two millennia, a period marked by relative peace and stability.

Additionally, the Roman Empire improved living conditions through advanced infrastructure and governance. Although it is true that the Empire kept tens of millions of people in slavery, it also had limited welfare in place to prevent people from starving in the streets. This is a significant improvement compared to the widespread violence and suffering that characterized many other societies around the world, especially those frequently subjected to rape, pillage, and plunder.

Contribution to Civilizational Progress

The Roman Empire's initial conquests significantly contribute to the broader civilizational progress. They provided safety, security, and opportunities for people to better their lives, all while expanding knowledge, technology, and cultural exchanges. The empire's military and exploratory endeavors also advanced knowledge in geometry, geography, and engineering, contributing to a more interconnected world.

Moreover, the Roman Empire's economic viability in conquest, exploration, and slavery cannot be ignored. Their actions helped to propagate and institutionalize these practices, leading to a more widespread and potentially impactful civilization. The fact that a few prominent Romans achieved significant wealth from these practices also suggests that the Roman system was deeply intertwined with financial gains and power.

Ultimately, by the standards of the time, the Roman Empire was no worse than, and in many ways better than, many of the other civilisations of its time. While it is natural to judge it through the lens of today's moral and ethical standards, it is crucial to remember that the context and practices of the past were vastly different.

By exploring the multifaceted legacy of the Roman Empire, we can gain a more complete and nuanced understanding of its impact on human civilization. While it brought about significant advancements and stability, it was not without its brutal and oppressive aspects. It is a reminder that history is complex, and evaluating historical institutions requires a deep understanding of the context in which they operated.