How We Can Better Study and Leverage Religion in International Relations

Abstract

This concluding chapter addresses the book's implications, arguing that there is indisputable evidence that religious appeals can be an important part of power politics. However, conditions often combine in an unstable manner, producing the unexpected effects of religious legitimation discussed in the previous chapters. The chapter then extends the analysis by applying the book's theory to more recent cases, before looking at the broader scholarly and policy implications. Mainstream international relations must start accepting religion's importance in power politics, but scholars of religion and international relations must shift their approach as well. They limit the scope of their studies by emphasizing religious beliefs' hold over states or instances of religion overriding material concerns. Instead, they must focus on international religious politics as a set of interactions and practices that overlap with material factors. The book can also speak to policymakers. Considering the minimal cost of issuing religious appeals and their clear effects, it appears to be a cost-effective tool in power politics. However, it is also unpredictable and must be approached with care.