Socio Politica : Jurnal Ilmiah Jurusan Sosiologi
Vol. 15 No. 2 (2025): Jurnal Socio-Politica

Religion as a source of legitimacy of power and its influence on the distribution of welfare

Anrivika, Gerry Ismail (Unknown)
Waehama, Muhammad Roflee (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
10 Jul 2025

Abstract

This study aims to analyze how religion is utilized as a source of legitimacy for power and its impact on the distribution of welfare. Religion serves as both a moral and political instrument that can either enhance or hinder social justice. This research employs a qualitative approach with a descriptive-analytical method and a literature review to examine relevant theories and empirical cases. The findings reveal that religion plays a dual role in governance and welfare policies. On one hand, it is employed by political authorities to legitimize power, shaping policies that reinforce social structures. On the other hand, religious organizations actively contribute to welfare distribution through philanthropy and social services. However, the allocation of welfare resources based on religious identity often leads to exclusivity, deepening socio-economic disparities. The study concludes that while religion holds transformative potential in promoting social justice, its role in governance must be managed inclusively to prevent reinforcing inequalities. Therefore, a collaborative approach between the state, religious institutions, and civil society is necessary to ensure that religion’s role in legitimizing power contributes positively to equitable welfare distribution. Contribution: By advocating for collaborative efforts among the state, religious institutions, and civil society, this research provides a valuable framework for promoting equitable welfare distribution and mitigating socio-economic disparities linked to religious identity.

Copyrights © 2025






Journal Info

Abbrev

socio-politica

Publisher

Subject

Religion Humanities Education Law, Crime, Criminology & Criminal Justice Social Sciences

Description

Socio Politica : Jurnal Ilmiah Jurusan Sosiologi is an open-access journal and peer-reviewed scientific works both theoretically and practically in the studies of social science. This journal covers crosscutting issues on social science studies in the perspectives of religion, education, law, ...