Was the Roman empire a good thing?

Yes, if you were wealthy, which in any society is the minority of the people. Most of the information from that time about the life of the people is about the wealthy. For the majority, most of the people, there is less information. The Roman Empire expanded to include most of Europe and northern Africa. They were successful 'occupiers' because they believed in incorporating the people of the occupied regions into the society and the military that they brought with them. Much of the visible works of the Roman elite were to be used and enjoyed by everyone, the roads, the buildings and monuments. Most of the common people appeared to be able to make a living. The Roman Empire also employed slaves whose lives (whether good or bad) would depend on their individual situation. A few slaves of the Empire were able achieve and accomplish on their own merit, but for the most part, their lives were tied to the lives and fortunes of their owners.