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Political Theology

Original Illustration from Thomas Hobbe's Leviathan

Throughout history, theological concepts across religious traditions have been used to legitimate political systems, actions, and stances. These resources examine how religious beliefs and principles motivate specific political action. In particular, they explore historic and contemporary understandings of political engagement in Christianity, Judaism, and Islam.

Our Experts

David Hollenbach headshot

David Hollenbach

Senior Fellow
Walsh School of Foreign Service and Department of Theology and Religious Studies

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Michael Kessler

Executive Director
Department of Government and Georgetown Law

Political Theology A-Z Subtopics

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Videos

May 17, 2023

The Godless Crusade (Video)

Duration: 1 hours 3 minutes

March 16, 2023

Christian Nationalism and the Borders of Political Community (Video)

Duration: 1 hours 3 minutes

October 26, 2022

8th Annual Costan Lecture in Early Christianity by James Keenan, SJ (Video)

Duration: 1 hours 7 minutes

Publications

Article November 2, 2021

Islam and the Secular

In this book chapter, Senior Fellow Jocelyne Cesari focuses on Islam and highlights the significant historical episodes that have shaped the current relations between religion and the secular, suggesting the key role of the nation-state in shaping religious and political dynamics today.

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Blog Posts

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