Instructor, Faculty of Theology, Payam Noor University, Tehran, Iran
10.30465/cps.2025.50553.3479
Abstract
This study conducts a comparative analysis of the doctrine of predestination in Ash‘arite theology and the concept of Fortuna in Machiavellian thought. While the Ash‘arites, within the framework of Islamic theology, emphasize the absolute power of God and determinism, considering human actions and fate as subject to divine will, Machiavelli presents fate as an impersonal and unpredictable force that political leaders can harness through Virtù (prudence and capability). This fundamental difference has led to distinct interpretations of how these two perspectives influence politics and governance. Ash‘arite thought, by reinforcing the divine legitimacy of rulers and advocating for the acceptance of predestination—particularly during the Islamic Caliphate—has provided a foundation for authoritarian rule. In contrast, Machiavelli, with his pragmatic approach, views governance as a realm for intervention and control over destiny. Through a comparative analytical method, this article examines the political and social implications of these two perspectives, demonstrating that while both Ash‘arites and Machiavelli acknowledge a force beyond human control, they diverge significantly in their assessment of human agency in response to it.
Garavand,A. (2025). The Doctrine of Predestination in Islamic Theology and Renaissance Thought: A Case Study Comparing Ash'arites and Machiavelli. (e10015). Contemporary Political Studies, 16(1), e10015 doi: 10.30465/cps.2025.50553.3479
MLA
Garavand,A. . "The Doctrine of Predestination in Islamic Theology and Renaissance Thought: A Case Study Comparing Ash'arites and Machiavelli" .e10015 , Contemporary Political Studies, 16, 1, 2025, e10015. doi: 10.30465/cps.2025.50553.3479
HARVARD
Garavand A. (2025). 'The Doctrine of Predestination in Islamic Theology and Renaissance Thought: A Case Study Comparing Ash'arites and Machiavelli', Contemporary Political Studies, 16(1), e10015. doi: 10.30465/cps.2025.50553.3479
CHICAGO
A. Garavand, "The Doctrine of Predestination in Islamic Theology and Renaissance Thought: A Case Study Comparing Ash'arites and Machiavelli," Contemporary Political Studies, 16 1 (2025): e10015, doi: 10.30465/cps.2025.50553.3479
VANCOUVER
Garavand A. The Doctrine of Predestination in Islamic Theology and Renaissance Thought: A Case Study Comparing Ash'arites and Machiavelli. Contemporary Political Studies, 2025; 16(1): e10015. doi: 10.30465/cps.2025.50553.3479