Secularism Meaning and Definition
Secularism
Pronunciation
/ˈsɛkjʊlərɪzəm/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A philosophy or practice that emphasizes the separation of religious institutions and the state, promoting neutrality and impartiality towards all religions, and often advocating for the exclusion of religious considerations from civic affairs and public policy.
Examples
- The country’s secularism ensures that no single religion is favored over others.
- Secularism is essential for maintaining social harmony in a diverse society.
Synonyms
- Laicism
- Separation of church and state
Antonyms
- Theocracy
- Religious fundamentalism
Additional Information
Secularism is often misunderstood as being anti-religious, but it is actually a principle that seeks to protect the rights of all individuals to practice their religious beliefs freely, without fear of persecution or discrimination. In a secular society, individuals are free to choose their own religious beliefs, and the government remains neutral, ensuring that no one religion is privileged over others.
Secularism has a long history, dating back to ancient civilizations such as Greece and Rome, where it was recognized that the separation of religious and civic authorities was essential for maintaining social harmony and promoting individual freedom.
Etymology
The term “secularism” was first used in the 1840s by the British philosopher George Holyoake, who defined it as the ” belief that morality and the welfare of society are not dependent on religious beliefs.”
Usage Notes
Secularism is often used interchangeably with “atheism,” but the two terms have distinct meanings. While atheism refers to the absence of belief in a deity, secularism is a political and philosophical ideology that seeks to separate religious institutions from the state.
Cultural References
Secularism has been a central theme in many literary and philosophical works, including John Locke’s “A Letter Concerning Toleration” and Voltaire’s “Treatise on Toleration.”
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
None
Related Words or Phrases
Laicism, separation of church and state, religious freedom, tolerance
Collocations
secularism and democracy, secularism and human rights, secularism and tolerance
Frequency of Use
Secularism is a common term in modern language, particularly in discussions of politics, philosophy, and religion.
Common Misspellings
Secularisim, Secularsim, Seculirism