The impact of Islamic political thought on governance systems: A comparative analytical study between Sunni and Shia models

Abstract

This research investigates the differential impact of Sunni and Shia Islamic political thought on contemporary governance systems through a comprehensive comparative examination. Using mixed-methods research incorporating quantitative assessment of administrative measures from 12 Middle Eastern countries (2003-2024), historical institutional analysis, and contemporary case studies, this research tests three primary hypotheses: (H1) Sunni-majority countries demonstrate superior administrative efficiency compared to Shia-influenced systems, (H2) historical duration correlates positively with institutional legitimacy in Islamic political systems, and (H3) economic development mediates the relationship between sectarian political models and governance outcomes. Statistical analysis reveals notable variations in administrative efficiency between Sunni-majority countries (M = 0.29, SD = 0.52) and Shia/Mixed systems (M = -1.15, SD = 0.61), t(10) = 2.826, p = 0.018. Correlation analysis demonstrates a strong positive relationship between GDP per capita and administrative efficiency (r = 0.663, p = 0.019). Historical analysis of six major Islamic political systems spanning 1,400 years reveals that Sunni caliphates averaged 312 years in duration compared to 170 years for Shia-influenced systems. The study concludes that while sectarian political thought influences governance structures, financial growth and organizational structure are stronger predictors of administrative efficiency than theological orientation alone.