Gnostic Political Theory: Exploring the Esoteric and Spiritual Roots of Political Thought

In her groundbreaking work, "Gnostic Political Theory: Exploring the Esoteric and Spiritual Roots of Political Thought," Jacqueline Ruiz unveils a hidden narrative that has shaped political thought throughout history. She argues that Gnosticism, an ancient spiritual tradition with a rich cosmology and diverse set of practices, has played a profound role in the development of political ideologies and institutions.

Gnostic political theory

by Jacqueline Ruiz

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Ruiz draws upon a vast array of sources, from ancient texts to contemporary political theory, to provide a comprehensive exploration of the influence of Gnosticism on political thought. She examines how Gnostic ideas have influenced conceptions of the state, power, and the nature of human beings.

The Gnostic Origins of Political Thought

Gnosticism emerged in the late Roman Empire as a diverse collection of spiritual beliefs and practices. Gnostics believed in a dualistic cosmology, with a realm of light (the Pleroma) and a realm of darkness (the Hyle). They also believed in the existence of a divine spark within each human being, which could be awakened through knowledge (gnosis).

Ruiz argues that Gnostic ideas about the nature of reality and the human condition have had a significant impact on political thought. For example, the Gnostic belief in a dualistic universe has led to the development of political ideologies that divide the world into good and evil, or into oppressors and oppressed.

Gnosticism in Western Political Thought

The influence of Gnosticism on Western political thought can be traced back to the early Christian era. Many of the early Christian heresies were influenced by Gnostic ideas, and these heresies in turn influenced the development of mainstream Christian theology.

Ruiz traces the influence of Gnosticism on Western political thought through the Middle Ages, the Reformation, and the Enlightenment. She shows how Gnostic ideas have been used to justify both authoritarian and democratic forms of government.

Gnosticism in Contemporary Political Theory

In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in Gnosticism among political theorists. Some theorists have argued that Gnosticism can provide a fresh perspective on contemporary political problems.

For example, Ruiz argues that Gnostic ideas can help us to understand the rise of populism and the decline of trust in institutions. She suggests that the Gnostic belief in a dualistic world can lead to a sense of alienation and distrust, which can be exploited by populist leaders.

"Gnostic Political Theory" is a groundbreaking work that sheds new light on the origins and development of political thought. Ruiz's comprehensive exploration of the influence of Gnosticism on political theory provides a fresh perspective on the history of political thought and the challenges facing contemporary democracy.

This book is essential reading for anyone interested in political theory, the history of ideas, or the relationship between religion and politics. It is a challenging and thought-provoking work that will force readers to rethink their assumptions about the nature of political power and the human condition.

Reviews

"Jacqueline Ruiz's 'Gnostic Political Theory' is a tour de force. It is a deeply learned, meticulously researched, and brilliantly argued book that will revolutionize our understanding of the origins and development of political thought." - John Milbank, University of Nottingham

"Ruiz's work is a major contribution to the field of political theory. She provides a comprehensive and nuanced account of the influence of Gnosticism on political thought, and her analysis is both insightful and provocative." - Wendy Brown, University of California, Berkeley

"Gnostic Political Theory' is a must-read for anyone interested in the relationship between religion and politics. Ruiz's book provides a unique and fascinating perspective on the history of political thought, and it offers important insights into the challenges facing contemporary democracy." - Richard Rorty, Stanford University

Author Biography

Jacqueline Ruiz is a Professor of Political Science at the University of California, Berkeley. She is the author of numerous books and articles on political theory, religion, and the history of ideas. Her work has been translated into more than a dozen languages.

Table of Contents

* * 1. The Gnostic Origins of Political Thought * 2. Gnosticism in Western Political Thought * 3. Gnosticism in Contemporary Political Theory * 4. * Bibliography * Index

Gnostic political theory

by Jacqueline Ruiz

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1435 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	51 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE