The Arthashastra
The Arthashastra by Kauṭalya, published by Penguin Books India in 1992, is an extensive manual on statecraft and the science of living, attributed to one of classical India’s prominent thinkers. Written not later than 150 AD, this work is a comprehensive treatise that encompasses various aspects of governance, law, foreign policy, and political strategy. The text is primarily in prose and includes 380 shlokas, reflecting Kautilya’s mastery in both literature and political thought.
Readers will find that The Arthashastra delves into topics such as the role of the state in economic well-being and the intricacies of political processes. The text is divided into fifteen books, each addressing critical elements of governance, including the responsibilities of a king and the maintenance of law and order. This edition, spanning 868 pages, serves as a significant resource for those interested in the intersections of business, economics, political science, and sociology, providing insights into the historical context and theoretical frameworks that have shaped governance in Asia.
Official synopsis Publisher
An extraordinary detailed manual on statecraft and the science of living by one of classical India’s greatest minds; Kautilya; also known as Chanakya and Vishnugupta; wrote the Arthashastra not later than 150 AD though the date has not been conclusively established. Legend has it that he was either a Brahmin from Kerala or from north India; however; it is certain that Kautilya was the man who destroyed the Nanda dynasty and installed Chandragupta Maurya as the King of Magadha. A master strategist who was well-versed in the Vedas and adept at creating intrigues and devising political stratagems; Kautilya’s genius is reflected in his Arthashastra which is the most comprehensive treatise of statecraft of classical times.
The text contains fifteen books which cover numerous topics viz.; the King; a complete code of law; foreign policy; secret and occult practices and so on. The Arthashastra is written mainly in prose but also incorporates 380 shlokas.
Artha; literally wealth; is one of four supreme aims prescribed by Hindu tradition. However; it has a much wider significance and the material well-being of individuals is just a part of it. In accordance with this; Kautilya’s Arthashastra maintains that the state or government of a country has a vital role to play in maintaining the material status of both the nation and its people. Therefore; a significant part of the Arthashastra has to do with the science of economics. When it deals with the science of politics; the Arthashastra describes in detail the art of government in its widest sense-the maintenance of law and order as also of an efficient administrative machinery.
Author
Publisher
Topics
FAQ
What is “The Arthashastra” about?
Who is the author of “The Arthashastra”?
When was “The Arthashastra” published?
What is the ISBN for “The Arthashastra”?
What are the book details (language, pages, edition)?
