Arthashastra

Book Code: 1111007433207

Kautilya

ABOUT THE BOOK

The Arthashastra is an ancient Indian document authored by the philosopher and statesman Kautilya, dealing with matters of statecraft and governance. It encompasses knowledge spanning politics, economics, and military strategies,   It also provides insights into diplomacy and military tactics as explained by the esteemed scholar. The wisdom and principles found in the Arthashastra still hold significance in modern politics, governance, and strategic thinking.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Chanakya (Sanskrit: चाणक्य; 375–283 BCE) was a multifaceted ancient personality in India, taking on roles as an educator, author, strategist, philosopher, economist, legal expert, and royal advisor. He is traditionally known by other names like Kauṭilya or Vishnugupta. Chanakya authored the Arthashastra, an ancient Indian manual on politics and governance, dating roughly between the 4th century BCE and the 3rd century CE. His work pioneered the fields of political science and economics in India, significantly shaping classical economic thought. Chanakya played a pivotal role in facilitating the rise of the first Mauryan emperor, Chandragupta, and is widely recognized for his vital contributions to the establishment of the Maurya Empire. He held a crucial advisory role for both Emperor Chandragupta and his successor, Bindusara.

CONTENTS

BOOK - I: CONCERNING DISCIPLINE ............................................................ 7
BOOK - II: THE DUTIES OF GOVERNMENT SUPERINTENDENTS ............ 36
BOOK - III: CONCERNING LAW....................................................................110
BOOK - IV: THE REMOVAL OF THORNS .................................................... 148
BOOK - V: THE CONDUCT OF COURTIERS ................................................ 175
BOOK - VI: THE SOURCE OF SOVEREIGN STATES ....................................189
BOOK - VII: THE END OF THE SIX-FOLD POLICY ..................................... 193
BOOK - VIII: CONCERNING VICES AND CALAMITIES ............................. 233
BOOK - IX: THE WORK OF AN INVADER..................................................... 245
BOOK - X: RELATING TO WAR ...................................................................... 262
BOOK - XI: THE CONDUCT OF CORPORATIONS ....................................... 273
BOOK - XII: CONCERNING A POWERFUL ENEMY .................................... 276
BOOK - XIII: STRATEGIC MEANS TO CAPTURE A FORTRESS ..................285
BOOK - XIV: SECRET MEANS ........................................................................ 297
BOOK - XV: THE PLAN OF A TREATISE ....................................................... 309