RELIGION AND ITS IMPACT ON WORLD POLITICS
Faculty
Year of Publication
Keyword
Publication Type
Abstract
Religion has been a powerful force shaping world politics throughout history.1 Whether through the influence of religious institutions, the actions of religious leaders, the great influence which religion has on man’s thought process or the beliefs and
practices of ordinary individuals, it has played a central role in shaping political systems, conflicts, and alliances.2 From the ancient world to the present day, religion has been used to justify wars and conquests, to mobilize social movements, and to define cultural identity.3 At times, religion has been a source of division and conflict, fueling sectarian violence and intolerance.4 At other times, it has been a force for peace and reconciliation, inspiring social justice movements and promoting interfaith dialogue.5 However, some are of the view that politics and religion should be separated. Thus, Milliard Fillmore, the
13 th President of the United States, stated that, “Church and State should be separate, not only in form, but fact- religion and politics should not be mingled”.6
practices of ordinary individuals, it has played a central role in shaping political systems, conflicts, and alliances.2 From the ancient world to the present day, religion has been used to justify wars and conquests, to mobilize social movements, and to define cultural identity.3 At times, religion has been a source of division and conflict, fueling sectarian violence and intolerance.4 At other times, it has been a force for peace and reconciliation, inspiring social justice movements and promoting interfaith dialogue.5 However, some are of the view that politics and religion should be separated. Thus, Milliard Fillmore, the
13 th President of the United States, stated that, “Church and State should be separate, not only in form, but fact- religion and politics should not be mingled”.6
Supervisor(s)
co-supervisor