The Market Integration Hypothesis: How Trade Shapes Trust - Wednesday's Edition

How culture originated

Stand on the docks of medieval Venice, Kilwa, or Quanzhou. Ships arrive carrying spices, silk, and wool from places most locals have never seen. The merchant stepping off the gangplank speaks a different language, worships different gods, and owes you nothing. You have never met his family. You will likely never see him again. Yet somehow you must agree…