Where exactly does the authoritarian belief in the power to rule others come from, if not a superstition based in "ordained" supernatural powers men granted themselves?
From our earliest ancestors who had to form groups in order to survive. There would ultimately emerge a leader (alpha male), just as in the animal kingdom, who would be challenged by others for that status. It has continued down the ages to the present day, the strongest warriors, best armed nations, winning wars, conquest and rule is the history of mankind. In our modern society it has become more complicated by vested interests, money and politics, but in general terms it’s might that wins out in leadership contests. Unfortunately, we do need rules to exist in society, otherwise we would descend into anarchy and chaos, but in an ideal society we would elect our leaders in a fair and egalitarian way. This appears an easy task, but in reality it’s rarely fair and far from egalitarian. I cannot see the connection to religion, except when politicians try to insert their religious views into legislation.
Very well said.