Arthashastra by Kautilya (Penguin Classics)

Description

the Arthashastra is an ancient Indian treatise on statecraft, economic policy, and military strategy, written by Kautilya, also known as Chanakya, who was a philosopher, economist, and advisor to the Mauryan Empire in the 3rd century BCE.

The book consists of 15 chapters, with each chapter containing numerous sub-chapters that cover a wide range of topics such as the organization and administration of the state, the duties of kings and ministers, the management of the economy, taxation, diplomacy, espionage, law, and punishment.

The Arthashastra emphasizes the importance of a strong and centralized government, with the king being the ultimate authority and responsible for maintaining law and order, protecting the state from external threats, and promoting the welfare of the people. It also provides detailed instructions on how to manage the economy, including how to encourage agriculture, trade, and industry, as well as how to regulate prices and wages.

In addition, the Arthashastra outlines various military strategies, including the use of spies and espionage, diplomacy, and the formation of alliances. It also provides guidance on how to deal with rebellions and uprisings, as well as how to conduct warfare both on land and at sea.

Overall, the Arthashastra is a comprehensive and practical guide to statecraft, offering insights into the workings of ancient Indian society and the principles of governance that continue to influence political thinking to this day.