Foundations of Indian Political Thought

Indian political thought offers a rich tradition of governance, ethics, and statecraft that remains highly relevant to contemporary political theory. By reading this course, you will establish a strong philosophical foundation in the major schools and thinkers of Indian political philosophy, enabling you to critically evaluate modern political theory and public policy through a non-Western lens. What you'll learn: * Understand the core tenets and historical context of classical Indian schools of thought, including Dharma, Arthashastra, and Nyaya. * Analyze the political ideas of key figures from ancient periods (e.g., Kautilya, Manu) and modern eras (e.g., Gandhi, Ambedkar). * Compare traditional concepts of sovereignty and statecraft (Rajdharma) with modern concepts of governance and public administration. * Practice applying ethical principles derived from Indian philosophy to contemporary issues in public policy and social justice. * Learn foundational concepts in comparative political analysis using non-Western frameworks. The course begins by defining core terminology and historical contexts. It then systematically explores major philosophical traditions, followed by detailed examinations of influential political thinkers and their enduring contributions to governance and ethics. This course is designed for absolute beginners in political science, philosophy, and humanities. No prior knowledge of Indian history or political theory is required. Start building your foundational knowledge of global political philosophy today.