Secularism — Chapter Summary

Secularism is a doctrine that opposes

Secularism is a doctrine that opposes religious domination in all forms. It promotes freedom within religions and equality both between religions and

This happens when members of one

This happens when members of one religious community are targeted, excluded, or attacked by another community. Examples include the massacre of Sikhs

This happens when unfair practices continue

This happens when unfair practices continue inside a religion. Dalits being barred from Hindu temples and women being denied entry to temples are exam

A theocratic state is governed directly

A theocratic state is governed directly by a priestly order. Such states lack separation between religious and political institutions.

The mainstream western model

The mainstream western model, best represented by the American state, follows mutual exclusion between religion and the state. The state does not inte