Final answer:
Political leaders can promote universal religions by commenting on world affairs, condemning or supporting certain ideologies, and supporting state religions or granting favors to religious institutions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Political leaders can play a role in promoting universal religions through various means:
- Using their platform to comment upon and try to influence world affairs. For example, the Dalai Lama of Tibet put forward a democratic constitution based on Buddhist principles.
- Condemning or supporting certain ideologies or beliefs. Catholic Popes Pius XI and Pius XII condemned communism, while Pope Francis urged governments to create a fairer market economy.
- Supporting state religions or granting favors to religious institutions. In some states, religious leaders head the political structure. In other cases, religious institutions receive subsidies or tax exemptions.
These actions can shape public opinion, influence political decisions, and create a sense of solidarity among adherents of the promoted religion.