Secularism means that the state does not give shelter to any particular religion. Secularism is a principle that advocates for the separation of religion from the affairs of the state. It promotes the idea that government institutions and policies should remain neutral with respect to religion, treating all beliefs (or non-beliefs) equally and not favoring any particular religion over others.
The Western concept of secularism is based on the ideas of Thomas Jefferson. He had said in 1908, "erecting the wall of separation between Church and State is absolutely essential in a free society".
The concept of secularism often involves several key principles:
- Freedom of Religion: Individuals have the right to practice any religion, or no religion at all, without interference from the state or other religious groups. This includes the freedom to worship, proselytize, and change one's religious beliefs.
- Equality: Secularism promotes equality among citizens regardless of their religious beliefs. It ensures that individuals are not discriminated against or favored based on their religion by the government or public institutions.
- Separation of Church and State: This principle emphasizes the independence of religious institutions and governmental bodies. It prevents religious organizations from dictating government policies and vice versa, thus safeguarding both religious freedom and the integrity of the state.
- Pluralism: Secularism recognizes and respects the diversity of religious beliefs within a society. It acknowledges that a variety of religious and non-religious perspectives coexist and seeks to create an inclusive environment where all individuals can peacefully coexist.
- Public Sphere Neutrality: Secularism advocates for a neutral public sphere where discussions and decisions about public policies and governance are based on rational and secular considerations rather than religious dogma.
Secularism is often seen as a foundational principle in modern democracies, ensuring that the rights and freedoms of all citizens are protected regardless of their religious affiliations. It provides a framework for fostering social cohesion, religious tolerance, and individual autonomy within diverse societies. However, the implementation and interpretation of secularism can vary significantly between different countries and contexts.