Question

how did emperor ashoka’s conversion to buddhism after the kalinga war demonstrate a significant shift in imperial philosophy? he declared buddhism the only legal religion in the empire he immediately abdicated the throne to become a monk he moved from conquest through violence to governance through moral example and welfare he abandoned all military forces and relied solely on diplomacy

Explanation:

• Option 1: Ashoka didn't make Buddhism the only legal religion; other religions existed.
• Option 2: He didn't abdicate the throne to become a monk immediately.
• Option 3: After Kalinga War, Ashoka shifted from violent conquest to governing via moral example (like promoting dharma) and welfare (building hospitals, roads), which matches.
• Option 4: He didn't abandon all military forces, just reduced reliance on violence.

Answer:

C. He moved from conquest through violence to governance through moral example and welfare