Secularism
Secularism
Secularism
Introduction
In sociological terms Secularism stands for an ideology and has ideological connotations but the usage of term in India does not conform to this ideological positions. Theoretically, all that is there in the world: beliefs, dogma, myths etc. are either Sacred or Secular. Sacred, which is dealing with religion hence all traditional societies are sacred as they are based on religion. Secular, on the other hand carries three properties: 1. Separation between State and Church. 2. Emphasis on Earthly rather on Divinity. 3. Rational Outlook. However, Secularism evolves into a very varied outlook. Some consider it to be separation between Church and State while some consider it to be value neutral and Multi Religious i.e. mutual respect towards all religion. Some consider it to be anti-religion while some consider it to be non-religious ( Nehruvian Concept). Some consider it to a prerequisite for a modern State while some raised question on its very existence. Few regard it as anti-majoritism while few consider it to be an appeasement policy for Minorities. But in all this vague meaning, one version came out separate and in fact suitability matches with the very multi-ethnic Indias definition of Secularism, i.e. the Sarvo Dharma Sambhava, or the Gandhian concept of Secularism which meant EQUAL REPSECT TO ALL RELIGION AS WELL NONRELIGIOUS. In simple words it connotes that public life and matter of governance, religion should not dictate the Socio-Political Decisions. In these backgrounds, it encompasses two specific features: 1. Differentiation: Economy and State are separated from Religion. 2. Privatisation: It includes the very rational and scientific outlook where religion entirely becomes part of Private domain of an Individual.
Origin
Societies are not born secular rather it undergo transformation from traditional society to secular one. This transformation is brought by a process called Secularization. Secularization could be defined as a process of social change in which public influence of religion declines and it is replaced by rational outlook with private orientation. Hence, citing Western Societies example, one can understand that Religion still exist but get confined to private domain.
Conclusion
Secularism reflects the way of life and connotes the ethical conduct, applicable to Individual, Society and State. The mutual hobnobbing between these three, i.e. Individual clinging to its faith, prevalence of mutual respect to all religion between all levels of society and State observing equidistant towards all religion, will not only strengthen the Constitutional Safeguards but will also ensure the sense of security and belongings which no Constitution can guaranty. Further it also reflects the sense of fraternity, unity among the citizens thereby generate the feeling of WE: the very core central word of Preamble.