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Single Idea 19987

[catalogued under 25. Social Practice / E. Policies / 2. Religion in Society]

Full Idea

In these [despotic] states, religion has more influence than anywhere else; it is fear added to fear. The peoples of the Mohammedan empires in part derive from their religion their extraordinary veneration for their rulers.

Gist of Idea

Religion has the most influence in despotic states, and reinforces veneration for the ruler

Source

Baron de Montesquieu (The Spirit of the Laws (rev. 1757) [1748], 05.14)

A Reaction

I suppose religions have submission to authority built into them.

Book Reference

Montesquieu,Baron de: 'Selected Political Writings', ed/tr. Richter,Melvin [Hackett 1990], p.153