Intellectual Awakening and Socio-Political Changes

Objectives

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- To understand the transition of society from 6th century to 2nd century BC (BCE) - To familiarise ourselves with the essence of new religious faiths: Buddhism, Jainism and Ajivika in India, Zoroastrianism in Persia, and Confucianism and Taoism in ChinaTo become aware of the circumstances that led to the formation of states with a focus on Magadha Empire - To understand the socio-political changes of the pre-Mauryan and Mauryan states

Recap

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- Sixth century BC (BCE) was a period of material, cultural and intellectual development. - Confucius ethics in China and Zoroastrian religion in Persia, Mahaviras Tri-ratnas and Buddhas eight-fold path in India created a new awakening and provided a moral code of conduct to humanity. - Sixth century BC (BCE) was also a period that witnessed the rise of Mahajanapadas. The sixteen such chiefdoms are listed with the focus on Magadha as a powerful kingdom. - The Mauryan dynasty was founded by Chandragupta Maurya with the aid of Chanakya. - The Mauryan administration and the greatness of Ashoka with particular reference to his dhamma is highlighted.