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U.P.P.C.S. Prelims 1993

Mauryan Political Philosophy

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Who established 'Rajdharma' on triplex bases of longanimity, liberty and compassion?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: A

Concept Post-Kalinga, Ashoka abandoned 'Bherighosha' (conquest by war) for 'Dhammaghosha' (conquest by righteousness/Dhamma).

Explanation Ashoka’s edicts (e.g., Major Rock Edict XII) advocate for religious tolerance, compassion towards all living beings, and the 'paternal' duty of the king to care for his subjects' welfare.

Logical Breakup
Ashoka (A): His administration was the first to explicitly codify universal ethical conduct as a state policy (Rajdharma).
Values: Longanimity (forbearance/patience), liberty (religious freedom), and compassion (Ahimsa).

Active Recall

Question

How did Ashoka describe his relationship with his subjects?

Answer

He famously declared in his Separate Rock Edicts, 'Sabe Munissa Paja Mama' (All men are my children).

Core Insight

Ashoka’s Rajdharma was a revolutionary shift from the Machiavellian realism of the Arthashastra to a welfare-oriented moral statecraft.

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