திருக்குறளும் சமகால அரசியல் நெறிமுறைகளும்

Thirukkural and Contemporary Political Ethics

Abstract

The Thirukkural stands as a universal code of conduct encompassing all aspects of human life. Within its three sections-Virtue, Wealth, and Pleasure—the concepts found in the 'Wealth' section (covering politics, governance, administration, civil affairs, justice, warfare, economics, friendship, enmity, and the welfare of the citizenry) remain relevant to contemporary political administration. In modern democracy, principles such as transparency, accountability, corruption-free administration, human rights, social justice, and good governance hold significant importance. The central theme of this study is that the Thirukkural emphasized many of these political norms two thousand years ago.

This article presents guidelines for good governance by comparing the political thoughts found in the Thirukkural with contemporary political principles. It explains how aspects such as the qualities of a ruler, the qualifications of ministers, the judicial system, the welfare of citizens, state responsibilities, war and peace, taxation, ethical leadership, and the eradication of corruption relate to the fundamental principles of modern political administration. Furthermore, it highlights the enduring relevance of Thiruvalluvar’s perspective that political power should be a responsibility to ensure the welfare of the people, rather than an instrument of domination.

This study not only reveals the connection between classical Tamil thought and modern political science but also serves as an effort to re-examine the universal political vision of the Thirukkural.