Theocracy is a form of government in which a deity of some type is recognized as the supreme ruling authority, giving divine guidance to human intermediaries that manage the day-to-day affairs of the government.
Advantages of theocracys:
1. Theocracies work to eliminate political polarization.
When a government is structured as a theocracy, then the spiritual and physical needs of a society come together under the same governing umbrella. Even though there are different opinions that are accepted under this structure, everyone feels like they are on the same team. That means there are fewer issues with filibusters and other forms of delay because everyone is on the same common ground from the start. Instead of debating ideas, theocracies typically discuss the best ways to implement processes instead.
2. This government structure works to streamline all operations.
The Pope is still considered the ruler of the Vatican City, which makes this government a Christian theocracy. Instead of going through 2+ branches of government and a judicial overview of any legislation or proclamation, a general declaration from the leader is all that is necessary to create the changes which are desired for any reason. Depending on the philosophy which declares why leaders are in power, these policies can be structured in a way that indicates God is the one declaring that a society follow new rules instead of the people who came up with the idea in the first place.
3. A theocracy operates through a centralized structure.
All theocracies offer a streamlined system of governing because everything emanates from a centralized command authority. This hierarchy does not allow for individual leaders to make decisions by themselves because every action is a dictation from the rulers. The actual religion used as the foundation of the government does not matter with this advantage.
Disadvantages of Theocracy:
1. Alternative opinions are rarely welcomed in a theocracy.
When someone reads a book, their individual perspectives will guide the interpretation of the material they encounter. It doesn’t matter if the story is a documentary or a work of outright fiction. We all take a different lesson from page, sometimes going beyond even what the author intended. This principle still applies when we read holy books. Even if there is one “perfect” idea to find, we would all apply it in different ways in our life.
2. Theocracies might preach peace, but they teach discord.
When you question the government’s actions or policies when living in a theocracy, then most leaders would equate that action to questioning God, the gods in charge, or even the ruler who society sees as a god. When there a few ruling the many, it becomes virtually impossible to challenge the ideas of a supernatural being that the average person cannot see or hear. You have no room for debate because the decision has already been made.
3. Minority groups are not tolerated in theocracies.
When you are living in a theocracy, then being in the minority on anything is not a position where you want to be. Even if you have a religious basis for your beliefs, the alternative thoughts are rarely tolerated. When the doctrine comes straight from the government and you refuse to follow it, then there is a possibility that your views could be seen as a violation of the law. Courts in theocracies sentence “dissidents” to jail or worse frequently.
