Download This PaperToward the Spiritualization of Politics
24 Pages Posted: 5 May 2020 Last revised: 18 May 2020
Date Written: April 9, 2020
Abstract
In this article, I explore conceptual connections between politics and spirituality, and I advocate for a spiritualization of the political sphere. I explain why the spiritual triad of love, communion, and the gift is deeply related to the political triad of the common good, political community, and government. I also make clear why individual and collective intentions and cultural values are the main channels of interaction between politics and spirituality. In the second part of the article, I argue that spirituality influences politics by, among other things: (a) prioritizing the person over the political community; (b) supporting the dematerialization of the political system; (c) fostering the respect for the law and ethics; (d) encouraging the limitation of domination; (e) inspiring the reduction of coercion; (f) stimulating reconciliation and union among peoples; (g) helping political systems to overcome necessary dualisms; (h) endorsing political participation and democracy; (i) inspiring diversity, solidarity, and inclusivity; (j) encouraging freedom and human rights; and (k) facilitating the decision-making process and political agreements.
Keywords: spirituality, politics, intention, values, love, communion, gift, consensus, common good, government, democracy, human rights, diversity
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