[AngelBee]

The fundamental purpose of the state (as embodied by the king) was pretty much fully enumerated by Kautilya. We still haven't really managed to reach that ideal.





Some choice quotes:

In the happiness of his subjects likes the king's happiness; in their welfare his welfare. He shall not consider as good only that which pleases him but treat as beneficial to him whatever pleases his subjects. {1.19.34}

The pursuit of [the people's] welfare as well as the maintenance of philosophic tradition, the Vedas and the economic well-being [of the society] are dependent on the sceptre wielded by the king. The maintenance of law and order by the use of punishment is the science of government. By maintaining order, the king can preserve what is already his, acquire new possessions, augment his wealth and power and share the benefits of improvement with those worthy of such gifts. {1.4.3}

The progress of this world depends on the maintenance of order and the [proper functioning of] government.
Some teachers say: 'Those who seek to maintain order shall always hold ready the threat of punishment. For, there being no better instrument of control than coercion.' Kautilya disagrees for the [following reasons.] A severe king [meting out unjust punishment] is hated by the people he terrorises while one who is too lenient is held in contempt by his own people. Whoever imposes just and deserved punishment is respected and honoured. A well-considered and just punishment makes the people devoted to dharma, artha and kama [righteousness, wealth and enjoyment]. Unjust punishment, whether awarded in greed, anger, or ignorance, excites the fury of even [those who have renounced all worldly attachment like] forest recluses and ascetics, not to speak of householders. When, [conversely,] no punishment is awarded [through misplaced leniency and no law prevails], then there is only the law of fish [i.e., the law of the jungle]. Unprotected, the small fish will be swallowed up by the big fish. In the presence of a king maintaining just law, the weak can resist the powerful. {1.4.5-15}

Only the Rule of Law can guarantee security of life and the welfare of the people. {1.5.2}