Studies in the Kautiliya

Summary

Law’s ‘Studies in the Kautiliya’ continues his multi‑part examination of the Arthashastra. In this installment he focuses on administrative and economic provisions: systems of weights and measures, regulation of trade and commerce, forest administration, and espionage. Law compares Kautilya’s prescriptions with those found in the Dharmaśāstras and with archaeological evidence from Mauryan sites. He argues that the Arthashastra reflects a sophisticated understanding of statecraft, including detailed guidelines for revenue collection, maintenance of public works, and management of mines and factories. The article discusses Kautilya’s categorization of officials and their salaries, disciplinary measures to prevent corruption, and instructions for maintaining law and order. Law also traces how later jurists cited or modified Kautilya’s rules, illustrating the text’s enduring influence.