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