The Arthashastra Paperback – February 10, 2021

A wonderful read. Gives brief intro into statehood, economics and foreign policy of Indian state.

This was written in 150 CE, as advice to a king on how to run his kingdom. It is encyclopedic, discussing topics you would find in Machiavelli, Sun Tzu, and maybe a business class run by Xaviera Hollander-- it sets the prices to be paid for the purchase of a courtesan, for example. It's interesting that the Penguin version only comes out of India, which would suggest that we in the west haven't given this much attention.

For those who are interested in Classical Indian Political and Economic philosophy this makes a good read.

For a book on statecraft that was written over two thousand years ago the ArthashastraKautilya is remarkably accurate and upto date. It could still serve as a basic manual for kingship. That is because it deals with humans at the centre of politics, and humans have not changed all that much in terms of motivation, emotions and goals. A remarkably prescient book.

One of the most important works of political philosophy. Equal to Plato and Socrates in importance.

Thanks so much! The book is amazing and I did not have any mailing issues.Thanks so much for getting my order to me in a timely manner.Jackie Ingram

Just got it, must be recycled paper because its a darker gray instead of white.Also, the print is like a used printer ribbon that printed lightly.You would think if they use a darker paper they would at least make the print dark and crisp.

A juicy read so far.