Caesaropapism
1
9.9
- noun
- /ˌsiːzəroʊˈpeɪpɪzəm/
- Formal
- The Byzantine Empire is often cited as an example of Caesaropapism in history.
Examples
-
Critics argue that Caesaropapism undermines the church's independence and spiritual authority.
-
Some historians debate whether the Russian Tsars truly established Caesaropapism within their realms.
-
The concept of Caesaropapism has been debated for centuries.
-
Many historians argue that Caesaropapism undermines religious freedom.
-
The concept of caesaropapism suggests that the government has ultimate control over religious institutions.
-
Many scholars debate whether modern leaders practice caesaropapism by influencing church decisions.
-
In the theory of caesaropapism, the state's authority supersedes that of the church in governing religious affairs.
Synonyms
1
9.9
A belief that the state controls the church's affairs
The idea that the government should control church affairs
Surface Forms
Morphology
Caesaropapism = papism (semi-transparent) = Caesar + pap + ism
Formed by adding 'Caesar-' to 'papism' to denote the emperor-related form of papal rule, but the term is specialized and the linking vowel and rare base may confuse learners.
Etymology
Caesaropapism comes from Caesar ('emperor') and pope ('head of the church'), so you can think of it as 'emperor + pope' in one idea. That's why Caesaropapism means the ruler or the state has the main control over church matters.