Helotism refers to a state of oppressive servitude or subjugation. Synonyms for the term include slavery, bondage, subjection, serfdom, peonage, enslavement, bondage, and thralldom. The concept of Helotism, dating back to ancient Greece, refers to a system in which a conquered people were reduced to servitude or serfdom, performing menial labour and providing economic benefits to their masters. While the term Helotism is not in common usage today, the concept it describes persists in many forms, from institutionalized forms of slavery and forced labour to more subtle forms of economic and social exploitation. Recognizing these forms of oppression and working to eradicate them remains an important task for advocates of social justice today.