Political Thought in Indic Civilization

Political Thought in Indic Civilization explores the earliest Indic political philosophies, emphasizing rashtra, kingship, jurisprudence, and justice, highlighting the influence of Western thought and colonial rule on the construction of knowledge.

Format: Hardback
Length: 324 pages
Publication date: 11 August 2023
Publisher: Manohar Publishers and Distributors

Political Thought in Indic Civilization is a comprehensive exploration of the earliest theories of Indic political philosophies, focusing on the political thought of Indic civilizations. It emphasizes key issues such as rashtra (state), kingship, jurisprudence, and justice, revealing the profound influence of Western thought on these ideas, ideologies, frameworks, reference points, and other significant tools of scholarly discussions. The book highlights the impact of colonial rule on the "construction of knowledge from a Western (colonial) perspective" and how it ignored the importance of Indian political thought of the pre-colonial period.

The book begins by tracing the origins of Indic political thought to ancient India, where it emerged as a response to the challenges posed by the rise of empires and the need for governance. It highlights the development of various political systems, including the monarchy, republic, and democracy, and explores their respective strengths and weaknesses. The book also examines the role of kingship in Indic civilizations, highlighting the importance of the king as a symbol of authority, justice, and unity.

One of the key themes of the book is the concept of rashtra (state). The author argues that the concept of rashtra is unique to Indic civilizations and is based on a deep understanding of the nature of human society. Rashtra is defined as a community of people who share a common language, culture, and history, and who are governed by a common set of laws and institutions. The author argues that rashtra is not just a political entity but also a cultural and spiritual entity, and that it plays a crucial role in shaping the identity and destiny of its people.

The book also examines the role of kingship in Indic civilizations. The author argues that kingship is not just a position of power but also a responsibility. Kings are expected to rule with justice, fairness, and compassion, and to serve the interests of their people. The author highlights the importance of the king's role in maintaining social order, promoting economic development, and protecting the interests of the state.

However, the book also highlights the negative impact of colonial rule on the "construction of knowledge from a Western (colonial) perspective" and how it ignored the importance of Indian political thought of the pre-colonial period. The author argues that colonial rule led to the suppression of Indian political thought and the imposition of Western political systems on India. This led to the loss of Indian cultural and political identity, and to the perpetuation of social and economic inequality.

The book concludes by arguing that it is essential to reclaim Indian political thought and to use it to address the challenges facing India today. The author suggests that Indian political thought can provide a framework for developing a more inclusive and democratic society, and for promoting economic development and social justice. The book also highlights the importance of promoting cultural exchange and dialogue between India and the West, in order to better understand each other's perspectives and values.

In conclusion, Political Thought in Indic Civilization is a comprehensive exploration of the earliest theories of Indic political philosophies, focusing on the political thought of Indic civilizations. It highlights the profound influence of Western thought on these ideas, ideologies, frameworks, reference points, and other significant tools of scholarly discussions, and the negative impact of colonial rule on the "construction of knowledge from a Western (colonial) perspective". The book concludes by arguing that it is essential to reclaim Indian political thought and to use it to address the challenges facing India today.

Dimension: 240 x 160 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9788119139453