Final answer:
A theocracy is a government where God or a divine being is recognized as the highest authority, exampled by Iran with its Islamic law. A secular state, like Turkey, maintains a separation between religion and state, basing laws on democratic processes.
Step-by-step explanation:
A theocracy is a form of government where a deity is considered the ultimate authority and religious law is used to govern the people. In this system, the religious hierarchy often controls the state administrative hierarchy, making theocratic laws central to governance. An example of a modern theocracy is the Republic of Iran, which recognizes Islamic law as sovereign.
In contrast, a secular state separates religion from the state and bases civil laws on democratic consensus rather than religious doctrine. Turkey is an example of a secular state where civil law is not derived from any particular religious code. Decisions in these states are made without direct reference to religious authority.