Ibn-Khaldun and ______ both stress the importance of religion for the state and the connection between religion and power.

Ibn-Khaldun and ______ both stress the importance of religion for the state and the connection between religion and power.

Options:

(a) Machiavelli

(b) Rousseau

(c) Bentham

(d) J.S. Mill

✅ Correct Option: (a) Machiavelli

Explanation:

Both Ibn Khaldun and Machiavelli emphasized the importance of religion in maintaining political authority and state stability. Although they belonged to different civilizations, their ideas show striking similarities. Ibn Khaldun viewed religion as a powerful force that strengthens Asabiyyah and legitimizes political authority. According to him, religion unites people beyond tribal bonds and provides moral justification for rule. Machiavelli, in The Prince, argued that religion is a useful tool for rulers to maintain obedience and social order. While Machiavelli approached religion pragmatically rather than spiritually, both thinkers recognized its political utility. This comparison is frequently tested by PPSC to assess comparative political thought. Unlike Rousseau, Bentham, and J.S. Mill—who focused on liberty, utility, and individual rights—Ibn Khaldun and Machiavelli stressed power, authority, and realism.

10 Related PPSC Facts:

Ibn Khaldun supported religious authority Machiavelli favored political realism Religion legitimizes power Both were realists Politics linked with morality Machiavelli separated ethics from politics Ibn Khaldun integrated religion Comparative political theory Authority requires belief system PPSC repeats comparison questions