Radhakrishnan, Vivek Kumar2019-09-252019-09-252014-02-2520149788189958794http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12424/201473Manu’s ideal state, as engraved and meticulously described in a smr t , is a society composed of interrelated and interdependent structural units that intend for the efficient functioning of the whole society.1 The harmonious working of the individual elements maintains the homeostasis of Manu’s society. It is evident from the clear-cut division of state into constituent elements, explicit division of labor, positional and gender-based stratification and sharply delineated social roles and expectations, that the aim was to carefully represent a finished state with accurately outlined structures and functions for the holistic continuity and maintenance of the Hindu society and polity. In this paper, I will be arguing that the central factor that binds the different units and holds the society together is Manu’s Dharma. In other words, Dharma prevents the society from breaking up and changing into anPages:427-452engWith permission of the license/copyright holderManusmritiHindu EthicsManu DharmaPolitical ethicsReligious ethicsMethods of ethicsPhilosophical ethicsBook chapter