Politics and Religion

Marianna Belloc

No 20356, CEPR Discussion Papers from Centre for Economic Policy Research

Abstract: In this work, we provide a dedicated and systematic review and organization of the most recent literature on the relationship between politics and religion. This nexus is relevant to economists not only per se, as it shapes preference formation, individual behavior, and policy choices, but also because it constitutes a key determinant of several socioeconomic outcomes. First, we analyze the existing contributions on the religious legitimacy of political power and its role in driving the relationship between political and religious leaders. Second, we examine the literature on political rulers’ interference in the religious sphere, including the establishment of state religions, cooperation with religious authorities, and restrictions on religious liberty. Third, we discuss the effects of organized religion and religious beliefs on political preferences, voting behavior, and institutional change. Finally, we briefly consider the broader economic and social consequences of the interplay between politics and religion.

Keywords: Politics; Religion; Legitimacy; Institutional change; Preferences; beliefs (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: D02 D72 N30 N40 P00 Z12 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025-06
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