History of the Arthasastra: Sovereignty and Sacred Law in Ancient India

The Arthaśāstra is an important text on statecraft and governance in ancient India, but Mark McClish's evaluation of its early history shows that it originally espoused a political philosophy characterized by empiricism and pragmatism, ignoring the mandate of dharma. The political theology of dharma was incorporated in the late classical period, obscuring the existence of an independent political tradition in ancient India and reinforcing the erroneous notion that it was ruled by religion.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 307 pages
Publication date: 17 September 2020
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The Arthaśāstra, a cornerstone of Indian political thought and the most influential treatise on statecraft and governance in ancient India, holds a revered place in the annals of history. Traditionally, it is believed that religion played a central role in shaping politics in ancient India, with kings striving to fulfill their sacred duty and sovereignty being bound by the sacred law of dharma. However, Mark McClish's meticulous examination of the Arthaśāstra's early history reveals a different narrative. Through a comprehensive chronological exploration, he demonstrates that these ideas only gained prominence in the statecraft tradition towards the end of the classical period. McClish's research unveils that the Arthaśāstra originally espoused a political philosophy characterized by empiricism and pragmatism, entirely disregarding the mandate of dharma.

It is significant to note that the incorporation of the political theology of dharma into the Arthaśāstra occurred during the late classical period. This redaction obscured the existence of an independent political tradition in ancient India, reinforcing the erroneous notion that religion dominated the political landscape. This historical revisionist perspective challenges our understanding of ancient India and sheds light on the complex interplay between religion, politics, and governance in this ancient civilization.

In conclusion, the Arthaśāstra, as examined by Mark McClish, reveals a profound shift in political philosophy from an early emphasis on empiricism and pragmatism to a later incorporation of the political theology of dharma. This transformation obscured the independent political tradition in ancient India and reinforced the notion that religion ruled the political sphere. McClish's research provides valuable insights into the complex dynamics of ancient Indian politics and governance, challenging our preconceived notions and illuminating the rich tapestry of this ancient civilization.

Weight: 516g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108701747