An Examination of State Policy from the Perspective of Imam Ali (PBUH) and Its Comparative Analysis with Western Schools of Thought

Abstract

Using a descriptive-analytical method, the present study examines Imam Ali’s (PBUH) approach to state policy and compares it with Western political thought. The findings indicate that no independent study has thus far specifically investigated Imam Ali’s perspective on politics in direct comparison with other schools of thought. Existing studies have generally addressed isolated aspects of the subject and have been conducted independently of the focus of the present research. Imam Ali’s approach to politics is fundamental in nature, as he regards religion and politics as interconnected and inseparable. Accordingly, he considers justice to be the principal foundation of political governance. From his perspective, a person who is capable of exercising authority and control over the self can undoubtedly become a successful statesman. The close relationship between religiosity and politics is clearly evident in the structure of Imam Ali’s government, as well as in his correspondence, instructions, and testaments. The concept of politics commonly refers to the principles and methods of governing a country and administering society, responsibilities that are generally entrusted to governments and states. It may therefore be argued that Imam Ali’s government represents a prominent model of an integrated understanding of religion and politics. In ancient Greece, politics and ethics were similarly regarded as necessarily interconnected. Socrates considered political knowledge to consist of familiarizing individuals with their moral duties, while Plato evaluated political systems according to ethical criteria. This approach continued throughout the Middle Ages; however, from the post-medieval period onward, Western political thought increasingly adopted the principle of separating religion from politics.