Significance of Kautilya
Kautilya, also known as Chanakya, was an ancient Indian philosopher, strategist, and the author of the Arthashastra, a foundational text on statecraft, economics, and political science. His teachings cover a wide range of topics including military strategies, governance ethics, the roles of kings and ministers, and the importance of espionage. Kautilya's insights on power dynamics, statecraft, and the responsibilities of rulers have made the Arthashastra a significant reference in ancient Indian political thought, emphasizing both practical governance and moral obligations.
Synonyms: Chanakya, Vishnugupta, Arthashastra, Philosopher, Statesman
In Dutch: Kautilya; In German: Kautilya; In Finnish: Kautilya; In Spanish: Kautilya
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Kautilya'
Kautilya, also known as Chanakya, is an influential ancient Indian philosopher and strategist, best known for authoring the 'Arthashastra,' a comprehensive guide on statecraft, military strategy, and governance, emphasizing practical ethics and political wisdom.
From: Kautilya Arthashastra
(1) The author of the Arthashastra, a foundational text on economics and political science in ancient India.[1] (2) An ancient Indian philosopher and strategist, credited with writing the Arthashastra, a treatise on statecraft and military strategy.[2] (3) The author and philosopher known for working on 'Arthashastra', focusing on statecraft and political ethics.[3] (4) The author of the Arthashastra, whose teachings guide kings in governance, including the protection of their heirs.[4] (5) A thinker who proposes that fines should be proportional to the severity of the crime.[5]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) Another name for Chanakya, the chief strategist involved in political plots during the rise of the Maurya Empire.[6] (2) Also known as Chanakya or Vishnugupta, he was an ancient Indian philosopher and strategist whose work discussed the roles of women, including prositutes, in society.[7]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The author who emphasizes the significance of material welfare over spiritual welfare and pleasure.[8]
The concept of Kautilya in local and regional sources
Kautilya, also known as Chanakya, symbolizes intelligence and strategic thinking in Visakhadatta's works. As a revered philosopher and author of the Artha Sastra, he profoundly impacted Hindu political thought, emphasizing rational governance and moral responsibilities of rulers.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A character symbolizing intelligence and strategic thinking within the context of Visakhadatta's dramatic works.[9] (2) A distinguished figure, probably a minister or adviser, known as a strategist and philosopher, who plays a pivotal role in the political dynamics described.[10] (3) A prominent philosopher in Hindu political thought who emphasized rational governance, but acknowledged moral responsibilities of kings.[11] (4) Also known as Chanakya, he is a revered ancient Indian philosopher and author of the Artha Sastra, considered the last great authority on political science.[12]