Pliny the Elder's assertion that fantastical stories surrounding spices were fabricated to inflate their value suggests a growing skepticism toward the authenticity of trade narratives. This skepticism could lead to a more discerning view among European political leaders regarding economic interactions with foreign markets, fostering a spirit of inquiry and skepticism toward foreign claims. As a result, it might inspire increased regulation and scrutiny of trade practices, as well as the pursuit of more reliable sources and routes for valuable commodities. Ultimately, this shift might contribute to an emerging rationalist approach in European commerce and politics, where empirical evidence began to override superstition and myth.
told fantastic stories, saying that their spices came from mystical lakes guarded by winged animals
According to Pliny the Elder, a Roman philosopher and politician, "All these tales... have been evidently
invented for the purpose of enhancing the price of these commodities." In 3-5 sentences, analyze how
this statement would later impact European political beliefs.
1 answer