What significant change did Emperor Ashoka implement during his reign?

Emperor Ashoka’s reign marked a pivotal shift in the governance of his empire, particularly notable for his commitment to social welfare over military conquest. Following his conversion to Buddhism after the Kalinga War, he became a proponent of non-violence and sought to promote the moral and ethical wellbeing of his subjects. Ashoka implemented numerous policies aimed at improving living conditions, including the establishment of hospitals, the planting of trees for shade and rest, and the construction of wells to ensure access to clean water. His edicts, inscribed on pillars throughout his empire, communicated principles of compassion, respect for all forms of life, and the importance of dharma (moral law).

This emphasis on social welfare and ethical governance represented a significant ideological shift from the aggressive military expansion that characterized earlier phases of his reign. While other options suggest a reinforcement of social hierarchies or suppression of pluralism, Ashoka’s approach uniquely prioritized the collective wellbeing of his diverse population and aimed to unify them under the principles of Buddhism.