Aajivika and Jivika: Concepts in Indian Philosophy and Economics

12 Questions

What was the main aim of Jivika during the Asokan edict period?

Enhancing agricultural productivity

How did Jivika contribute to the foundation of the modern agrarian economy?

Introducing new methods like irrigation systems

What did Jivika do to foster peace among communities?

Supporting state-backed projects

How did Jivika promote trade among different regions?

Using standard measures, weights, and coinage

What role did Jivika play in establishing markets of goods and services?

Significant role in establishing markets

How do ancient economic ideas from Jivika and Aajivika influence modern society?

They inspire concepts of economic security and sustainability

What was one of the main doctrines of the Aajivika tradition?

Non-action ('akarma')

Which philosophical schools of ancient India contrasted with the Aajivika tradition?

Vaisheshika and Nyaya

What aspect of life did Makkhali Gosala's teachings focus on for his followers?

Living happy lives

What concept is associated with economic security through sustainable practices during the Mauryan Empire?

Jivika

Which empire and Emperor is primarily linked with the concept of Jivika?

Mauryan Empire and Emperor Ashoka

'Aajivika' and 'Jivika' have their roots in which traditions?

Indian philosophy and economics

Study Notes

Karya Aajivika and Jivika

The terms 'Aajivika' and 'Jivika' have their roots in Indian philosophy and economics, particularly within Buddhist traditions. They represent concepts related to material wellbeing and self-reliance.

Aajivika Tradition

The Aajivikas were a small religious sect founded by Makkhali Gosala around the fourth century BCE during the time of Mahavira and Gautama Buddha. One of the main doctrines of this tradition was non-action ('akarma') which emphasized living one’s life passively without any effort or action beyond what is necessary for survival. This doctrine contrasted with the other two major philosophical schools of ancient India, namely Vaisheshika and Nyaya.

In essence, the teachings of Makkhali Gosala were concerned less with spiritual development and more with how his followers might live happy lives based on their understanding of karma, rebirth, and the temporary nature of all things in this world. While there is limited information available on this ancient school of thought, it had some overlap with early Buddhism and Jainism due to its focus on renunciation of desires and actions.

Jivika Concept

Jivika refers to economic security through sustainable agriculture and trade practices. It has been associated primarily with the Mauryan Empire and Emperor Ashoka. During this period, Jivika was considered part of a broader social policy aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity, encouraging efficient production processes, and stimulating craftsmanship under the Asokan edict system.

This concept contributed significantly to the foundation of modern agrarian economy by introducing new methods such as irrigation systems like canals and reservoirs, fostering peace among communities through state-supported projects, promoting trade among different regions using standard measures, weights, and coinage, and establishing markets of goods and services. These initiatives played a significant role in laying the groundwork for future developments in the field of economics.

While both the Aajivika tradition and Jivika have historical significance, they serve as reminders of economic ideas rooted in ancient cultures. Today, we still strive for economic security and sustainability while also questioning our own individual responsibilities towards the larger society—concepts that can be traced back to these ancient philosophies and practices.