Political Science
Secularism
धर्मनिरपेक्षता
In Class 11 Political Science, Part 2: Political Theory, this topic explores secularism as a principle for organising relations between religion, the state and citizens. Students examine freedom of conscience, equality before the law, religious diversity, minority rights and the importance of keeping public institutions fair to people of different faiths. The topic also introduces the Indian approach to secularism, including principled state intervention in religious practices when necessary to protect equality and social justice, while considering major debates and criticisms.
Practice questions
What problem can arise if a community’s religious tradition is placed above law in secularism?MediumLevel 54What is the difference between giving real security to a religious community and giving it exemption from law in secularism?MediumLevel 54What does a shared language of citizenship mean in secularism?MediumLevel 54Which method should a public official adopt while hearing a religious dispute in secularism?MediumLevel 54Why can even a uniform rule sometimes be unjust in secularism?MediumLevel 54Why is insulting a religion in the name of social reform unfair in secularism?MediumLevel 54Which three tests can justify a reasonable limit on religious freedom in secularism?MediumLevel 54How should a demand for community representation be examined in secularism?MediumLevel 54When would making separate relief camps on the basis of religious identity be unfair in secularism?MediumLevel 54What is the relation between freedom of conscience and family pressure in secularism?MediumLevel 54From which perspective should a question related to change of religion be viewed in secularism?MediumLevel 54Why is blaming entire religious communities in public debate wrong in secularism?MediumLevel 54What is the correct relation between communal harmony and justice in secularism?MediumLevel 54How can security checking based on religious identity be made legitimate in secularism?MediumLevel 54When can giving space to a religious community’s language in public service be proper in secularism?MediumLevel 54What is the correct relation between freedom of belief and scientific temper in secularism?MediumLevel 54Why should the state pay attention to social exclusion based on religion in secularism?MediumLevel 54When can the internal rules of a religious institution be reviewed in secularism?MediumLevel 54On what balance should permission for a religious event in a public space be based in secularism?MediumLevel 54What is the difference between prejudice against a religion and valid criticism in secularism?MediumLevel 54