Secularism and religious tolerance

Secularism

Secularism refers to the principle of separation of religion from civic, state and educational affairs.
The concept of laïcité, originating from French secularism, involves a stricter separation of church and state and prohibition of religious involvement in government affairs.
Secular ethics seeks to establish moral codes independent of religious beliefs.
Secular humanism advocates for human values, reason, and ethics, without reference to any deity or religious context.
Explore the complexities and differing models of secular states, contrasting predominantly secular countries like France with those like the U.S. where there’s a legal separation of church and state but a strong societal religious influence.

Religious Tolerance

Religious tolerance is the acceptance and respect for other’s religious beliefs and practices, even when differing from one’s own.
Acknowledge the difference between religious tolerance and religious pluralism, which not only permits multiple religious beliefs, but recognises their legitimacy and potential to coexist.
Understand the movement towards interfaith dialogue as a means to promote understanding, cooperation, and respect among followers of different religions.
Critically engage with instances where religious tolerance is challenged, such as in cases of religious discrimination, persecution, or conflict.
Discuss the importance of religious tolerance in maintaining societal peace and harmony, and the role of government in promoting it.

Secularism and Religious Tolerance

Understand the potential tensions between secularism and religious tolerance, where secularism’s emphasis on religious neutrality could be seen as infringing on religious freedoms.
Consider the role of secularism in promoting religious tolerance by ensuring a neutral platform where all religions are treated equally.
Discuss contemporary issues related to secularism and religious tolerance, such as debates over wearing religious symbols in public or secular spaces, like hijabs in schools or crosses in government buildings.
Engage with the paradox where extreme secularism may lead to religious intolerance, such as, potentially, anti-clericalism or Islamophobia.
Examine the different responses to secularism across religions, looking specifically at the reactions within highly traditional or orthodox communities.