Religious+policies+Mao+and+Nasser

Jonathan Staker April 19, 2010 Mao and Nasser · In a single party state religion is one of the up-most important issues. Its relevance is due to the potential harm it can cause to a single party state leader. · In many situations, a totalitarian leader views religious ideologies, values, philosophies, and concepts as opposition against their own views. · If the leader wishes to have complete control over his state and people there must not be any ideology present other than that of his regime. · Some single party states seek to initiate their own religious morals and values in order to give the people an alternative spiritual engagement. · Religious organizations serve as rival power groups that potentially attract people who do not agree with the set hierarchical structure. · Although most all single party state leaders look to diminish if not eliminate the role of religion, some have attempted to strengthen or come to terms with it for their own benefit. Example: Stalin during WWII used the Russian Orthodox Church to gain loyalty of Russian society. Mussolini sought to become friendly with the Roman Catholic Church, as its expansive influence was unsurpassable. · Under Chairman Mao’s communist regime religion was not allowed yet this was not strictly enforced. It was more or less something that was frowned upon · Mao took an approach of establishing himself to be a god-like figure. Through a cult of personality, Mao was effective in creating the sense that everything depended on him, without him there was no China. · Mao’s cult of personality created a tremendous following. The creation of the //little red book// increased his rule and influence. Mao was the one to worship. · Egypt being a Muslim state has Islam deeply rooted into its people. Nasser knew that for total support he would have to incorporate religion in his system of government. · With an ultimate goal of Pan-Arabism, Nasser supported Islamic organizations to further his support throughout the region. · Mao and Nasser felt less threatened by religious organizations than many single party state rulers. · Mao attempted to cultivate himself into a worshipped leader while Nasser teamed with Islamic organizations for support. Both saw religion as ways to gain influence for their regime.
 * 1) **** Significance of religious policies in a single party state leader. **
 * 2) **** How did single party leaders Mao and Nasser apply religious policies to their states? **
 * 3) **** How were Mao and Nassers relate religious polices relate? **