Theory of Government in Ancient India (Post-Vedic) c6.6

c6.6

Dandanīti is the term employed in the Mahābhārata to denote what has been translated by some scholars as Political Theory. Literally, it means the science of coercion. Viewed in the context as a whole, it is best rendered as the science of government. In consonance with the general trend of Hindu social thought the subject is viewed predominantly as an art. As such, Dandanīti claims precedence over all other branches of study. It is the refuge of “the whole world of life.” As the reins check the steed, or as an iron hook controls the elephant, so Dandanīti keeps the world under restraint. It destroys every evil as the sun destroys darkness.¹