Sir William Jones: A Study in Eighteenth Century British Attitudes to India

The greatest achievement of Sir William Jones, the 18th century orientalist, was the foundation of the Asiatic Society of Bengal. This, the first learned society devoted to Indian Studies, generated an enthusiasm which spread over India and Europe. Through both the Society, and his own scholarly and political work, Jones had a far-reaching influence upon British attitudes towards India and on India itself. Dr Mukherjee's study of Jones's thought and work assesses the nature of this influence and an his ideas about India and its civilization. This book is set in the framework of 18th century scholarly and political thought. The opening chapters on Jones's early life in England contrast his failure as a lawyer with his success as an orientalist, and discuss the growth of his Whig philosophy. His activities in India are then described in detail. After a chapter concerned with the foundation and work of the Asiatic Society, Dr Mukherjee examines Jones's own studies on Ancient Indian history and their role in shaping the subject of Indology. He then traces the development of Jones's theory of law and government for the British Raj in Bengal, and the reconcilement of his liberal views with the Indian constitution. The book ends with a chapter on his legacy to modern India.