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Secularism

The separation of religion from government affairs, promoting equal treatment and freedom for all beliefs.

Overview Issues Discuss

About

  • Secularism is a political ideology that advocates for the separation of religious institutions from the state. This ideology emphasizes the need for a clear distinction between government and religion, asserting that neither should interfere in the affairs of the other. Secularism promotes the idea that public activities and decisions, especially political ones, should be uninfluenced by religious beliefs and practices.

    The roots of secularism can be traced back to ancient Greece, where philosophers like Epicurus proposed a world that was free from the influence of gods. However, the modern concept of secularism emerged during the Enlightenment period in Europe, particularly in the 18th century. Enlightenment thinkers such as John Locke and Thomas Jefferson advocated for the separation of church and state, arguing that religious freedom could only be achieved if the state did not favor or endorse any particular religion.

    The French Revolution in the late 18th century further solidified the concept of secularism. The revolutionaries sought to dismantle the Catholic Church's influence over French society and politics, leading to the establishment of secular laws and institutions. This marked one of the first instances of a secular state in the modern era.

    In the 19th and 20th centuries, secularism spread to other parts of the world, often alongside movements for democracy and human rights. Many countries adopted secular constitutions, ensuring the separation of religious institutions from state affairs. These include the United States, where the First Amendment to the Constitution prohibits the government from establishing a religion or interfering with the free exercise of religion.

    However, secularism is not universally accepted or implemented in the same way across the world. In some countries, religion continues to play a significant role in politics and public life. In others, secularism is interpreted not as a strict separation of religion and state, but as a principle of neutrality, where the state does not favor any particular religion but allows for the free practice of all religions.

    In conclusion, secularism is a political ideology that advocates for the separation of religious institutions from the state. It emerged during the Enlightenment and has since been adopted in various forms around the world. Despite differing interpretations and implementations, the core principle of secularism remains the same: the separation of religion and state to ensure religious freedom and neutrality in public affairs.

Relevant stances

Voters that identify as Secularism are most likely to agree with these stances.

Opposing stances

Voters that identify as Secularism are most likely to oppose these stances.

Similar ideologies

These ideologies are most similar to Secularism.

Liberal Democracy

A society where individual freedoms are protected, and power is held by elected representatives, promoting equality and justice for all.

Term LimitsAbortionWelfare Drug TestingGender TransitionEqual Pay

Liberalism

Promoting individual freedoms, equal rights, and social justice to create a fair and inclusive society.

Mandatory VaccinationsCorporate SubsidiesAbortionTerm LimitsWorld Health Organization

E-Democracy

Leveraging digital technology can enhance democratic processes, increase citizen participation, and promote transparency in governance.

Mandatory VaccinationsGender TransitionTaxesWelfare Drug TestingForeign Aid

Cannabis Legalisation

Legalizing marijuana will lead to reduced crime rates, increased tax revenue, and improved public health.

Term LimitsTaxesAbortionMandatory Military ServiceWelfare

Self Respect

Valuing your own worth and maintaining dignity leads to a more fulfilling and empowered life.

Women in CombatDrug PolicyMandatory Military ServiceTaxesAbortion

Democratic Liberalism

Promoting individual freedoms, social equality, and a balanced government that protects citizens' rights while fostering economic growth and social justice.

AbortionTerm LimitsMandatory VaccinationsEqual PayWomen in Combat

Multiracialism

Embracing and celebrating diverse racial backgrounds will lead to a more harmonious and inclusive society.

WelfareTerm LimitsEqual PayWomen in CombatDrug Policy

Opposing ideologies

These ideologies are least similar to Secularism.

Total State Control

You believe only a comprehensive state apparatus can create the order, unity, and direction a society needs to thrive.

Flag BurningLGBT Adoption RightsSafe HavenMarijuanaDecentralised Finance

Restorationist

You believe society has taken wrong turns and should return to the proven values and structures that once made it stronger.

LGBT Adoption RightsWomen in CombatSafe HavenFlag BurningMarijuana

Neo-Nazism

Establishing a society based on racial purity and authoritarian rule to promote national unity and strength.

LGBT Adoption RightsWomen in CombatMuslim Immigrant BanGay MarriageFlag Burning

How similar are your political beliefs to Secularism issues? Take the political quiz to find out.