Question

Which of the following ancient Indian literature was a treatise on the science of governance?
A. Manusmriti
B. Arthashastra
C. Mahabharat
D. None of these

Answer 1

Hint: Science of governance can be seen as a plethora of ideas and concepts related to the polity. It comprises statecraft and thoughts which seek to promote the ideal nature of how a state should be governed.

Complete answer: Arthashastra is written by Chanakya which relates and deals with the ideas and practices of political democracy and also tells us about the working and procedures of governance, it also lays its emphasis on economic policies and military strategies, moreover explores issues of social welfare and teaches ethics too. It focuses on how a state should be run and governed by a ruler. It deals with all the concepts that are important concerning governance. Chanakya focuses on the statecraft in his book, Arthashastra.
Arthashashtra played a key role in the establishment of one of India’s greatest empires and that is none other than Mauryan empire, Chandragupta being its ruler.
Collectively it can also be said that it is a draft that focuses on building the empire wherein the governance is based on ethics, responsibility and culture. Chanakya also known as Vishnugupta also called Kautilya is said to be the author of the text, he was also a scholar at Taxila.
Therefore, the correct answer is “B”.

Note: Chanakya is also known as the Machiavelli because of his ruthless decision and tactics of how he made the policies for the state. He is considered the most clever and intelligent man of ancient times.