The Concept of 'Secularism' | Philosophy Optional Notes for UPSC PDF Download

Secularism Defined

• Philosophy of Secularism: Originally developed as a philosophy focused on the needs and concerns of humanity in this life, secularism does not address the possible needs and concerns associated with an afterlife. It is often considered a materialistic philosophy that centers on improving human conditions in this world.
• Secularism's Goals: Secularism emphasizes living for the present and this world rather than the past or another world. It seeks to address issues like violence, ignorance, poverty, and disease, with an emphasis on human efforts.

Secular Humanism

Western Model of Secularism
In the Western model of secularism, there is a clear separation of religion and state. This implies that the state does not interfere in religious matters, and religion does not influence state policies. Religious institutions receive no financial support from the state, and religious practices are considered private matters.

Indian Model of Secularism

1. Indian secularism does not solely focus on church-state separation; it emphasizes inter-religious equality.
2. It emerged in a context of deep religious diversity and a pre-existing culture of inter-religious tolerance in India.
3. It equally opposes oppression, discrimination, and potential threats within religious communities.
4. Indian secularism allows for state-supported religious reforms and policies.
5. The Indian state may disengage or engage with religion as needed to promote peace, freedom, and equality.
6. Indian secularism allows for principled state intervention in religious matters, especially when it comes to issues like caste hierarchy.

In summary, while secularism in the West often means a clear separation of religion and state, Indian secularism is more complex and involves addressing issues of equality, reform, and cultural preservation within diverse religious communities. It allows for state intervention when principles of equality, peace, and freedom are at stake.

Critique and Response of Indian Secularism

• Critique 1: Indian Secularism is Anti-Religious 
  Response: Indian secularism opposes institutionalized religious domination, but it is not inherently anti-religious. It seeks to protect individual and community rights while respecting religious diversity and promoting harmony.
• Critique 2: Secularism Threatens Religious Identity
  Response: On the contrary, Indian secularism upholds religious freedom and equality, safeguarding religious identities. It challenges dogmatic, violent, fanatical, and exclusivist beliefs that threaten social harmony.
• Critique 3: Indian Secularism is Western and Ill-Suited to India
  Response: Indian secularism is not a Western implant. It draws from both Western and non-Western influences. While Western secularism focuses on church-state separation, Indian secularism aims at peaceful coexistence and the protection of minority rights.
• Critique 4: Indian Secularism Promotes Minoritism 
  Response: Indian secularism advocates minority rights, justifiable for protecting fundamental interests without banning or imposing coercive measures on majority communities. It is grounded in the principles of religious freedom enshrined in the Indian Constitution.
• Critique 5: Indian Secularism is Coercive 
  Response: Indian secularism doesn't necessarily mean excessive intervention or coercion. It follows a concept of principled distance, allowing for non-interference. State-supported religious reforms are not imposed with forceful intervention.
• Critique 6: Deep Religious Differences Undermine Peace
  Response: History shows that peaceful coexistence among people with deep religious differences is attainable. India's diverse civilization and examples like the Ottoman Empire demonstrate the possibility of harmonious living among diverse religious communities.

In summary, Indian secularism promotes religious harmony, protects minority rights, and seeks to maintain a principled distance from religion without being coercive. It is a unique blend of Western and non-Western influences that align with the diverse and pluralistic nature of Indian society.