Secularism

Question 1

Secularism

Answer 1

separation of religion from affairs and public policy, the idea that religious beliefs should not dictate state decisions or dominate the public sphere.

Question 2

Political Secularism

Answer 2

The state remains neutral on matters of religion; no official church or faith‐based law.

Question 3

Cultural Secularism

Answer 3

Religion becomes a private matter; public life or culture is organised independently of faith.

Question 4

Epistemological Secularism

Answer 4

Knowledge and truth‐claims are grounded in science or reason, not revealed religion.

Question 5

Max Weber

Answer 5

modernisation disenchantment of the world

Question 6

Peter L Berger

Answer 6

Secularisation thesis modern society - decline of religious authority

Question 7

Steve Bruce

Answer 7

argues western europe shows clear signs of secularisation - church attendance, belief and influence all in steep decline

Question 8

Grace Davie

Answer 8

‘believing without belonging’ people maintain private belief even as institutional religion wanes