Which of the following statements regarding Kautilya's Arthashastra i...
Introduction:
Kautilya's Arthashastra is an ancient Indian text written by Chanakya, also known as Kautilya or Vishnugupta. It is a comprehensive treatise on statecraft, politics, economics, and military strategy. It covers a wide range of topics related to governance and administration.
Explanation:
The statement that is incorrect regarding Kautilya's Arthashastra is option 'C', which states that it does not recognize the concept of private land ownership. However, this statement is incorrect because the Arthashastra does recognize and discuss the concept of private land ownership.
Discussion:
1. Definition of 'State':
- The Arthashastra is indeed the first Indian text to define the concept of 'State'. It provides a detailed explanation of the structure and functioning of the State, including the roles and responsibilities of the ruler, ministers, and other administrative officials.
2. Issues of social welfare and collective ethics:
- The Arthashastra extensively explores issues of social welfare and the collective ethics that hold a society together. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining social order, justice, and the welfare of the people. It discusses various policies and measures that a ruler should adopt to promote the well-being of the society.
3. Recognition of private land ownership:
- Contrary to the incorrect statement, the Arthashastra does recognize the concept of private land ownership. It discusses various aspects related to land, such as land revenue, taxation, and land grants. It also provides guidelines for resolving land disputes and ensuring the protection of property rights.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the incorrect statement regarding Kautilya's Arthashastra is option 'C', which claims that it does not recognize the concept of private land ownership. The Arthashastra, in fact, discusses and recognizes private land ownership along with various other aspects of governance and administration.
Which of the following statements regarding Kautilya's Arthashastra i...
- Despite considerable theorising concerning rituals in later Vedic collections and the Brahmanas, one can't find any state definition either in this literature or in the early law-books, the Dharmasutras. This was because this institution was not established on a firm footing so far.
- It is only after the rise of Kosala and Magadha's well-organised states in the age of the Buddha that the state is defined for the first time in the Arthashastra of Kautilya as consisting of seven elements, a definition which becomes an axiom in the later sources.
- The Arthashastra explores such issues advising the king that in times and areas devastated by famine, epidemic and such acts of nature, or by war, he should initiate public projects such as building irrigation projects, building forts around major strategic holdings and towns and exempt taxes on those affected.
- The Arthashastra does recognise the concept of land ownership rights and other private property and requires the king to protect that right from seizure or abuse. This makes it unlike the Soviet Union and China model of citizen's private property rights.
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