THE ROLE OF RELIGION IN POWER AND POLITICS

This study aims to provide a comprehensive historical overview of the role of religion in power and politics, spanning from ancient civilisation to the modern era, analyse case studies that highlight the influence of specific religions, such as Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism, on political power structures and governance, while also exploring contemporary perspectives on the intersection of religion and politics, including discussions on religious legitimacy, fundamentalism, public policy, and conflicts arising from religious differences. This study will adopt an interdisciplinary approach, drawing upon various academic disciplines such as religious studies, political science, sociology, and history. Qualitative and quantitative research methods include literature analysis, case studies, surveys, and interviews. In a critical examination of various historical overviews of religion's role in power and politics, it was discovered that religion has been historically intertwined with power and politics, shaping societal structures and political institutions. Different religions have influenced the governance and political systems in various ways, reflecting their beliefs, values and practices. The role of religion in politics continues to be significant today, with religious legitimacy, fundamentalism, public policy, and conflicts being the critical areas of focus. However, it is recommended, based on the thorough investigation and comprehensive analysis presented in this study, that the survey be taken more seriously to add valuable insights into the connections between religion and political power, where future research could delve deeper into specific case studies, expand the examination of contemporary perspectives, and explore other lesser-known religions as well as the impact on political dynamics among others.

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