The Epistemological Foundations of Bahá'í Political Nonpartisanship

Abstract: This essay explores the concept of nonpartisanship in the Bahá’í Faith as more than a moral directive or social attitude — it examines it as an epistemological orientation, a distinct way of knowing and engaging with the world. Drawing on the Bahá’í writings, the essay argues that authentic nonpartisanship is rooted in a spiritual and philosophical framework that emphasizes unity, justice, and the independent investigation of truth. Rather than withdrawing from civic life, Bahá’í nonpartisanship calls for a deeper, principled engagement with public affairs—one that transcends ideological binaries, fosters balance across cultural, political, and economic domains, and contributes to the construction of a just and coherent global civilization. The essay further highlights the role of nonpartisan discourse in addressing contemporary challenges, strengthening democracy, and cultivating new patterns of social participation grounded in ethical integrity and a long-term civilizational perspective.