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
In a society based on secularism, what is the most appropriate way to resolve disputes?ExpertLevel 52Why is it important in secularism to protect a person who dissents within a religious community?ExpertLevel 52How does a national identity based on shared citizenship strengthen secularism?ExpertLevel 52What does preventing inter-religious domination mean in secularism?ExpertLevel 53What is the problem of intra-religious domination in secularism related to?ExpertLevel 53If a religious institution keeps its weaker members away from education, what should be the proper approach of a secular state?ExpertLevel 53What would be the most appropriate basis of a civic oath in a secular state?ExpertLevel 53According to secularism, which behaviour is proper in government relief distribution?ExpertLevel 53If separate eligibility for a government job is created on the basis of religion, which condition of secularism is broken?ExpertLevel 53What is the correct relation between religious freedom and public order in secularism?ExpertLevel 53Why would civic punishment based on religious identity be considered wrong in secularism?ExpertLevel 53What is the proper civic way to deal with religious rumours in a secular society?ExpertLevel 53Why can public rules apply to religious charity institutions in secularism?ExpertLevel 53What caution should the state keep regarding the link between language and religion in secularism?ExpertLevel 53What would be the most proper basis for regulating religious processions in secularism?ExpertLevel 53If the state protects a religious place, when is it compatible with secularism?ExpertLevel 53Why is the freedom to change religion valued in secularism?ExpertLevel 53On what basis would forced conversion be opposed in secularism?ExpertLevel 53How should religious debate be conducted democratically in secularism?ExpertLevel 53What is the purpose of applying equal rules to religious symbols in secularism?ExpertLevel 53