Secularism is the principle of separating religion from political, social, and educational institutions. It advocates for the neutrality of the state in matters of religion, allowing individuals to practice their faith freely without government interference, and ensuring that religious beliefs do not influence governmental policies and laws. Secularism promotes the idea that government should be free from religious institutions and that religious groups should not wield political power. It also encompasses the protection of individual rights and freedoms, fostering an environment where diverse beliefs can coexist without favoring any particular religion. Central to secularism is the idea of reason, often advocating for policies based on rational thought and empirical evidence rather than religious doctrine.
Richard Malka champions secularism as a defense against rising religious extremism, emphasizing clarity and courage in navigating these challenges. He advocates engaging young voices to question established views, transitioning from…