A system or ideology where a single ruler holds supreme authority over both government and religious institutions, blending imperial and papal power.
From caesaropapacy + -ism (suffix indicating a system or ideology). A variant term emphasizing the ideological character of combining absolute rule with religious authority.
When scholars study the Byzantine Empire or modern authoritarian states with state religions, 'caesaropapism' is their go-to term—it perfectly captures how a leader uses religious authority to legitimize political oppression.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.