Slavery

Slavery is defined by Merriam Webster as "the state of a person who is a chattel of another." Despite being a well-known phenomenon, it is difficult to precisely define. Significant debates continue to rage over whether slavery is merely historical or whether it continues till this day in certain forms.

Competing Definitions

The scholar and historian Dr. Jonathan AC Brown has described the various definitions that have been proposed for the concept of "slavery." He argues that there is no single all-encompassing definition that works in all times and places - each definition has its shortcomings one way or another. In addition to Dr. Brown, other scholars have noted the difficulty of defining slavery; for example the scholar of slavery in Western civilization David Brion Davis has said, "the more we learn about slavery, the more difficulty we have defining it."

Defining Slavery By Recognition

According to this definition, slavery is simply known when recognized.

Defining Slavery As A Legal Condition

Something something something.

Defining Slavery As Lack Of Freedom

Problem: we always don't have freedom.

Property

Doesn't include modern slavery.

Class

Too broad?

Modern Slavery

An interesting phenomenon.