According to Kautilya, 'Artha' (wealth) is the most important thing and 'dharma' and 'karma' are dependent on it. It was recognised as one of the purusharthas. To him, wealth inclu... According to Kautilya, 'Artha' (wealth) is the most important thing and 'dharma' and 'karma' are dependent on it. It was recognised as one of the purusharthas. To him, wealth included money, commodities, acquired wealth, public or private property, precious metals, labour and even forest produce. Acquisition of wealth is always beneficial if it is acquired for the sake of a good wife, a son, or friend or for giving to charity. He justified the wealth earned through proper means and thought that accumulation of wealth was a safe method.
Understand the Problem
The question appears to be asking for an analysis or summary of Kautilya's views on the importance of wealth ('Artha') in relation to other concepts such as 'Dharma' and 'Karma'. It highlights Kautilya's recognition of wealth as one of the purusharthas and outlines his thoughts on the nature and acquisition of wealth.
Answer
'Artha' (wealth) is the most important pursuit according to Kautilya, and includes various forms of assets. Properly acquired wealth is beneficial for family and charity.
According to Kautilya, 'Artha' (wealth) is the most important pursuit, with 'dharma' and 'karma' dependent on it. Wealth includes money, commodities, acquired wealth, public or private property, precious metals, labor, and forest produce. Properly acquired wealth is seen as beneficial, especially for family and charity.
Answer for screen readers
According to Kautilya, 'Artha' (wealth) is the most important pursuit, with 'dharma' and 'karma' dependent on it. Wealth includes money, commodities, acquired wealth, public or private property, precious metals, labor, and forest produce. Properly acquired wealth is seen as beneficial, especially for family and charity.
More Information
Kautilya, also known as Chanakya, was a philosopher, economist, and advisor in ancient India. He authored the Arthashastra.
Sources
- INDIAN ECONOMIC THOUGHT - shcollege.ac.in
- Puruṣārtha - Wikipedia - en.wikipedia.org
- The Kautilya's Perspective on Wealth: Artha, Vyartha & Anartha - vedic-management.com
