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
If a state gives different value to voters based on religious identity, which principle is violated?ExpertLevel 53According to secularism, when would the use of religion in tax policy be improper?ExpertLevel 53On what basis can a public holiday for a religious festival be balanced in secularism?ExpertLevel 53How should religion-related information in a census be used in secularism?ExpertLevel 53What is the proper relation between civic identity and religious identity in secularism?ExpertLevel 53When can dialogue between the state and religious communities be considered proper in secularism?ExpertLevel 53What should determine the limit of a religious community's autonomy in secularism?ExpertLevel 53What should be the role of police in religious disputes in a secular state?ExpertLevel 53What problem is shown by refusing housing on the basis of religious identity in secularism?ExpertLevel 53According to secularism, what should be the role of religious identity in a public service like a hospital?ExpertLevel 53Which approach is proper for textbook writing in secularism?ExpertLevel 53Why can religious plurality be called democratic capital in secularism?ExpertLevel 53Why is collective blame on a religious group improper in secularism?ExpertLevel 53Why should protection of a religious minority not be called privilege in secularism?ExpertLevel 53What can be the role of civil society organisations in secularism?ExpertLevel 53Why is different treatment at public examination centres on religious grounds wrong in secularism?ExpertLevel 53Why should religious freedom be understood at both group and individual levels in secularism?ExpertLevel 53What is most important while choosing government symbols in secularism?ExpertLevel 53What should be the correct purpose of security arrangements during religious festivals in secularism?ExpertLevel 53How should balance between religious belief and scientific education be understood in secularism?ExpertLevel 53