This distinction highlights the differences in methodology and application
between natural and social sciences.
WHAT IS ECONOMICS:
Economics is a social science that:
1.Orginates from the greek word “Oikonomia”(household management)
2.Is reffered to as the “Queen of social sciences” by paul samuelson
3.Studies the economic aspect of human behavior
4.Examines how human statisfy unlimited wants with limited resources
KEY FOCUS: Allocation of scarce resources to meet unlimited human
desires.
Kautilya's Views on Economics (Arthashastra)
Definition: Arthashastra = "Science of Wealth" (Artha: Wealth, Shastra:
Science)
Key Points:
1. Role of the State: Government plays a crucial role in economic
development.
2. Wealth Creation: Focus on creating wealth to ensure state welfare.
, 3. Good Governance: Efficient administrative machinery essential for
prosperity.
4. Comprehensive Framework: Compilation of political ideas into
Arthashastra.
Main Objectives:
- Economic development
- State welfare
- Good governance
- Efficient administration
Key Concepts:
- State intervention in economy
- Wealth creation and distribution
- Administrative efficiency
- Political stability
Influence: Kautilya's Arthashastra (4th century BCE) remains a foundational
text in Indian political economy, influencing economic thought and policy-
making.
Relevance Today: Kautilya's ideas remain relevant in modern economic
discourse, highlighting the importance of:
- Effective governance
- Strategic economic planning
- State-market balance
- Social welfare considerations
*Definitions of Economics: Adam Smith's Wealth-Oriented Definition*
Adam Smith (1723-1790), considered the "Father of Economics," defined
economics as:
*"The study of wealth."*
*Key Points:*
1. Focus on wealth creation and distribution
2. Emphasis on economic growth and development
3. Assumes unlimited wants and scarce resources
The benefits of buying summaries with Stuvia:
Guaranteed quality through customer reviews
Stuvia customers have reviewed more than 700,000 summaries. This how you know that you are buying the best documents.
Quick and easy check-out
You can quickly pay through credit card or Stuvia-credit for the summaries. There is no membership needed.
Focus on what matters
Your fellow students write the study notes themselves, which is why the documents are always reliable and up-to-date. This ensures you quickly get to the core!
Frequently asked questions
What do I get when I buy this document?
You get a PDF, available immediately after your purchase. The purchased document is accessible anytime, anywhere and indefinitely through your profile.
Satisfaction guarantee: how does it work?
Our satisfaction guarantee ensures that you always find a study document that suits you well. You fill out a form, and our customer service team takes care of the rest.
Who am I buying these notes from?
Stuvia is a marketplace, so you are not buying this document from us, but from seller sachin15. Stuvia facilitates payment to the seller.
Will I be stuck with a subscription?
No, you only buy these notes for $8.29. You're not tied to anything after your purchase.