The social and economic history of Greco-Roman Egypt is a major strength of the
Institute of Ancient History at the University of Basel. The invited scholar and his host have both worked extensively on documentary texts on papyrus, while both also adopt comparative methods of historical sociology in their research. The overall objective of this scientific exchange is to advance our understanding of fiscal institutions in Egypt by sharing different perspectives and expertise on the Ptolemaic (323-30 BC) and Roman imperial period. Monson's aims are to incorporate the papyrological evidence into a broader comparative study of fiscal regimes in the ancient Mediterranean as well as to solve specific problems in the interpretation of the sources. For myself and researchers at the University of Basel, the goal is to use Monson's visit for a series of workshops and presentations centered on the fiscal regime in Egypt under the Ptolemaic dynasty and the Roman empire. The results will be seen in high-quality research outputs, namely, a book and articles that benefit from substantial collaborative input. Their impact will be as much in the creation of new knowledg about Greco-Roman Egypt as in the refinement of methodologies for comparative history, which will have multiplying effects through the students and scholars in this field from Basel and nearby universities who will profit from the exchange.