WHAT IS A THEOCRACY? • A theocracy is a form of government in which God is the Civil Ruler or the official leader has a divine link to God. • The government is often guided by clergy of the dominant religion. • The theocracy has two arms –church and state—the state arm always comes second to the church. Continued Characteristics of a Theocracy Opposition or dissent to the government is limited or forbidden. Often only one legal political party. Limited property rights for citizens. Religious freedom is not allowed. Social welfare programs may not exist, there is limited or no civil rights. The government has a significant role in the economy. WHAT A THEOCRACY IS NOT A democratic government which is by and for the people. A government of shared power. Power is in the hands of a single individual or a few people. A government which give the people civil rights. A government that allows for freedom of religion. THE BENEFITS OF A THEOCRACY • God is the ultimate head of state. The government can command more loyalty from the citizens because of this. • Citizens tend to be more united because of their religious faith. • Theocratic states tend to be quite strong in war because the wars of theocratic states are all holy wars. PROBLEMS OF THEOCRACY • Theocracies have much less freedom and fewer civil liberties. • The laws may not be based on logic or fairness, but on the words of an ancient book. These laws are not debatable or changeable. • Many theocracies severely limit the rights and freedoms of women. • Freedom of speech is extremely limited. It is seen as speaking against God. COUNTRIES WITH THEOCRACIES Iran Vatican City Somalia Saudi Arabia