The Inner Conflict of Tradition: Essays in Indian Ritual, Kingship, and Society c13.s1.4

c13.s1.4

Now science and scientific method in the classical Indian context should not, of course, be taken in our usual empiricist sense emphasizing precise observation and experiment. They center on debate that should lead to the right decision. Similarly, the *Arthaśāstra* wants to be primarily, not a straightforward manual of government and administration, but a guide for methodical argumentation and the proper handling of discussion on questions of statecraft. Viewed in this way, the seemingly pedantic enumerations and definitions fall into their proper places as aids toward articulate debate. Equally, the many discussions on the reasoned opinions of other teachers seem to be models of argumentation and discussion rather than refutations of previous views.⁸