Religion as political instrument: the case of Japan and South Africa.

Through the ages and in different political contexts, politicians have utilised religion in order to gain political goals. This paper investigates the reasons why religion is such an effective instrument within politics. Looking at politics and Christian religion in South Africa, and politics and Shinto and Buddhism in Japan, the author identifies the following as factors at play: (a) a holistic understanding of reality; (b) a culture of accepting that religion plays a part in politics; (c) politics and religion touch emotional and sentimental chords; (d) religion contributes to national identity; (e) religion can provide a claim to divine approval of political decisions; (f) religious communities are effective partners in implementing government policies. The author has not investigated the relationship between Islam and politics. Bibliogr., sum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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