The characteristic which shaped society and culture in the Maurya empire under Ashoka's rule is C. Buddhist principles encouraged Asoka to lead by example. The previous emperor of Maurya empire supported views of Jainism and this fact is considered as contribution to social and religious renewal and reform across the society of this time. But Ashoka's was into Buddhism view that also brought lots of benefits to the development of culture because this religion serves as the foundation of the reign of social and political peace and nonviolence across all of India. Ashoka spread this religion into Europe, Sri-Lanka, Africa, Asia and many other places.