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GE3791 HVE UNIT II Secular Values

human values and ethics (Anna University)

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GE 3791 – HUMAN VALUES AND ETHICS (R-2021)
UNIT – II – SECULAR VALUES
2.1. UNDERSTANDING SECULAR VALUES
2.1.1 : MEANING AND DEFINITION:
Secular values are principles that promote the separation of religion from public life, ensuring equal
treatment and opportunities for all citizens regardless of their religious beliefs or affiliations. These values
aim to create an inclusive and neutral environment, where individuals can freely practice their faith
without fear of discrimination or coercion.
Key Components of Secular Values:
1. Religious Neutrality: The state remains neutral and impartial towards all religions, avoiding any
favoritism or bias.
2. Freedom of Religion: Individuals have the right to practice, profess, and propagate their religion
without fear of persecution or discrimination.
3. Equal Treatment: All citizens are treated equally, regardless of their religious beliefs or affiliations,
in matters of law, education, employment, and public services.
4. Separation of Church and State: Religious institutions and the state maintain separate spheres of
influence, with the state not promoting or endorsing any particular religion.
5. Tolerance and Pluralism: Secular values encourage acceptance and respect for diverse religious
beliefs and practices, promoting a culture of coexistence and mutual understanding.
Importance of Secular Values:
1. Promotes Social Harmony: Secular values help maintain social cohesion and reduce religious
conflicts.
2. Protects Minority Rights: Secularism ensures that minority groups are not marginalized or
oppressed by the majority.
3. Fosters Critical Thinking: Secular values encourage rational inquiry, critical thinking, and intellectual
freedom.
4. Supports Human Rights: Secularism upholds human rights, including freedom of expression,
association, and conscience.
In summary, secular values are essential for creating a fair, inclusive, and pluralistic society, where
individuals can thrive without fear of religious discrimination or persecution.

2.1.2 : Types of Secular Values

Types of Secular Values
Secular values can be categorized into several types, including:
1. Civil Secular Values:
 Freedom of speech and expression
 Freedom of assembly and association
 Right to privacy
 Right to equality and non-discrimination
2. Political Secular Values:
 Separation of church and state
 Religious neutrality of the state
 Equal treatment of all citizens regardless of religion
 Protection of minority rights
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3. Social Secular Values:
 Tolerance and acceptance of diversity
 Pluralism and inclusivity
 Respect for individual autonomy and choice
 Promotion of social justice and human rights
4. Cultural Secular Values:
 Preservation of cultural heritage and diversity
 Promotion of arts, science, and critical thinking
 Encouragement of intellectual curiosity and inquiry
 Celebration of human achievements and progress
5. Moral Secular Values:
 Humanism and empathy
 Compassion and kindness
 Honesty and integrity
 Responsibility and accountability
6. Economic Secular Values:
 Social welfare and economic justice
 Fair distribution of resources and opportunities
 Protection of labor rights and social security
 Promotion of sustainable development and environmental protection
These categories are not exhaustive, and secular values can overlap or intersect with one another.
However, they provide a framework for understanding the diverse aspects of secularism and its
application in various spheres of life.

2.2 INTERPRETATION OF SECULARISM IN INDIAN CONTEXT

The term "secular" was added to the Constitution in 1976 as part of the 42nd Amendment. The
Indian judiciary has consistently upheld secularism as a fundamental principle, and has emphasized its
connection to democracy, equality, and the protection of individual rights.
Secularism means separating government from religion which simply means that the government of
India should not follow or favor any particular religion rather every religion should be favored equally.

Secularism in India is the idea that all religions are equal and that the state is separate from
religion. The Constitution of India guarantees the following:
 Freedom of conscience: The freedom to have one's own religious beliefs
 Freedom of religion: The freedom to practice, propagate, and manage religious affairs
Protection of minorities: The protection of the interests of minorities

In India, secularism is interpreted as:

1. Sarva Dharma Samabhava: Equal respect and treatment for all religions.
 Meaning
The concept implies that all religions may have different paths but they all reach the same
destination. It also embodies the idea of harmony and coexistence of all religions and their
followers.

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 Origin
Mahatma Gandhi is said to have first used the phrase in a speech to his followers in September
1930. He used it to end the divisions that were developing between Hindus and Muslims towards
the end of British rule.
 Other followers
The concept was also embraced by other well-known social reformers and political thinkers, such
as Ramakrishna and Vivekananda.
 Basis of secularism
The concept is the basis of the feature of secularism in the Constitution of India.

2. Dharma Nirapekshata: Neutrality of the state towards all religions.

Dharmanirapekshata (धधधधधधधधधधधधधध) is a modern political and constitutional principle
that separates religious institutions and religious leaders from government institutions and state
representatives. It is also known as panthnirpekshata or secularism.
The principle of dharmanirapekshata has two main proposals:
 State should not interfere with religion
The state should not interfere with the operation of the state or policy-making.
 Everyone is equal under the law
All people, regardless of their religion, are equal before the law, constitution, and government
policy.
Dharmanirapekshata also means that the state should keep religion out of politics and non-religious
issues, and that the government should not discriminate against anyone based on their religion. It also
means that people are free to practice their religious beliefs and that the state should respect people
who don't practice any religion. The state should only intervene in religious matters if different religions'
fundamental beliefs conflict with each other.

3. Multi-religious coexistence: Acceptance and celebration of diverse religious traditions.

Multi-religious coexistence, or religious pluralism, can be an opportunity for a more inclusive and
peaceful world. It can:
 Foster understanding
Interreligious dialogue can lead to increased understanding and social harmony between people of
different faiths.
 Promote freedom
People can be exposed to a variety of religious beliefs, which can increase their freedom to choose their
own faith.
 Encourage collaboration
People can work together across religious groups to promote cooperation and collaboration.
 Promote secularism
The state or non-sectarian institutions can be neutral on religious issues, and promote a friendly
separation of religion and state.
Some examples of multi-religious coexistence include:

 The UK - A multi-faith or multi-cultural society where many different faiths live together
 Nigeria - Sultan Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar III, the Sultan of Sokoto, is a co-president of Religions
for Peace and is committed to promoting peaceful coexistence
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Key Features of Indian Secularism:
1. No official state religion: India does not have a state-sponsored religion.
2. Freedom of religion: Citizens are free to practice, profess, and propagate their religion.
3. Protection of minority rights: Special provisions for minority communities to preserve their
cultural and religious identity.
4. Separation of religion and politics: Religion is not allowed to influence governance and policy-
making.
5. Inclusive and pluralistic: Recognition and respect for diverse religious traditions and
philosophies.

Challenges to Secularism in India:

1. Communalism and religious fundamentalism: Rising tensions and conflicts between religious
groups.
2. Majoritarianism: Dominance of the majority community over minority groups.
3. ** Politicization of religion**: Use of religion for political gain and mobilization.
4. Social and economic inequalities: Persistent disparities and discrimination based on religion,
caste, and class.

Strengths of Indian Secularism:

1. Diverse and vibrant democracy: India's secular framework has allowed for the coexistence of
diverse religious and cultural traditions.
2. Resilience and adaptability: Indian secularism has withstood challenges and evolved over time.
3. Constitutional safeguards: The Indian Constitution provides robust protections for minority rights
and freedom of religion.

Importance of secularism in India

These are the reasons why secularism is important in India –
 As people in India are of different religions, secularism is highly important here to maintain peace
and harmony
 To maintain the power of the majority in India, secularism safeguards democracy for all citizens
 Secularism provides equal fundamental rights to every citizen of India without discriminating
based on religion
 Secularism explains that every region should be respected equally and no people should be
harmed based on religion
 Secularism is also important to take fair decisions by the country’s head in a democratic country
so that any religion is not hurt by the act or decision

Secularism and the Indian Constitution

 There is a clear incorporation of all the basic principles of secularism into various provisions of
constitution.
 The term ‘Secular’ was added to the preamble by the forty-second constitution Amendment Act
of 1976, (India is a sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic, republic).

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o It emphasize the fact that constitutionally, India is a secular country which has no State
religion. And that the state shall recognize and accept all religions, not favour or patronize
any particular religion.
 While Article 14 grants equality before the law and equal protection of the laws to all, Article
15 enlarges the concept of secularism to the widest possible extent by prohibiting discrimination
on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex or place of birth.
 Article 16 (1) guarantees equality of opportunity to all citizens in matters of public employment
and reiterates that there would be no discrimination on the basis of religion, race, caste, sex,
descent, place of birth and residence.
 Article 25 provides ‘Freedom of Conscience’, that is, all persons are equally entitled to freedom of
conscience and the right to freely profess, practise and propagate religion.
 As per Article 26, every religious group or individual has the right to establish and maintain
institutions for religious and charitable purposes and to manage its own affairs in matters of
religion.
 As per Article 27, the state shall not compel any citizen to pay any taxes for the promotion or
maintenance of any particular religion or religious institution.
 Article 28 allows educational institutions maintained by different religious groups to impart
religious instruction.
 Article 29 and Article 30 provides cultural and educational rights to the minorities.
 Article 51A i.e. Fundamental Duties obliges all the citizens to promote harmony and the spirit of
common brotherhood and to value and preserve the rich heritage of our composite culture.

In a democracy, secularism is the main pillar that maintains the country’s democratic values.
Secularism in a country like India is very important because India consists of several religions. To keep
peace within the country and develop society, secularism plays a vital role. During post -independence
several challenges were faced by India to maintain a secular country, even still the challenges persist or a
new one is formed or may form.
Overall, Indian secularism is a unique and dynamic concept that continues to evolve in response to
changing social, political, and cultural contexts.

2.3: DISASSOCIATION OF STATE FROM RELIGION

The disassociation of state from religion is a fundamental principle of secularism, where the state:
1. Does not endorse or promote any particular religion
2. Remains neutral and impartial towards all religions
3. Does not favor or discriminate against any religion
4. Separates religious institutions and authorities from the state
5. Does not use religious symbols, language, or practices in governance
Key aspects of disassociation:
1. No state-sponsored religion: No religion is officially recognized or sponsored by the state.
2. Separation of church and state: Religious institutions and authorities are separate from the state.
3. Religious neutrality in law and policy: Laws and policies are made without reference to religious
doctrine or authority.
4. No religious oaths or tests: No religious oaths or tests are required for public office or citizenship.

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5. Protection of freedom of conscience: Citizens are free to hold and practice their own beliefs
without state interference.

Benefits of disassociation:
1. Promotes religious freedom and diversity
2. Prevents religious discrimination and persecution
3. Encourages critical thinking and intellectual freedom
4. Fosters social cohesion and inclusivity
5. Ensures equal treatment under the law

Challenges to disassociation:
1. Religious majoritarianism: Dominance of a single religion in the state.
2. Religious nationalism: Use of religion to define national identity.
3. Influence of religious lobbies: Religious groups influencing state policy.
4. Symbolic uses of religion: Use of religious symbols or language in state contexts.

Why is it Important to Separate Religion from the State?

Separating religion from the state is important for a number of reasons, including:
 Protecting individual rights
It's important to protect the freedom of individuals to practice any religion, leave their religion, or
interpret religious teachings differently.
 Preventing majority domination
If the majority religious group has state power, they can misuse it to dominate minority religious groups.
 Avoiding biased government
Separating religion from the state helps ensure that the government doesn't favor one religion over
another.
 Enhancing peace and harmony
Separation of religion from the state helps create a society where people of all religious beliefs ca n live
together in peace.
 Ensuring the functioning of both religion and state
Separation of religion from the state allows both religion and the state to function without interfering
with each other.
The separation of religion from the state is also known as secularism. One of the basic principles of
secularism is that the government should not be involved in religious matters.
By disassociating itself from religion, the state can ensure a neutral and inclusive environment for all
citizens, regardless of their religious beliefs or affiliations.

2.4: ACCEPTANCE OF ALL FAITHS

Acceptance of all faiths is a core principle of secularism, where:
1. All religions are treated equally: No religion is favored or discriminated against.
2. Diverse beliefs are respected: Different faiths and beliefs are acknowledged and valued.
3. Freedom of religion is ensured: Citizens are free to practice, profess, and propagate their faith.
4. Interfaith understanding is promoted: Dialogue and cooperation between different religious
communities are encouraged.
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5. No religion is imposed: No single religion is imposed on citizens or used to dictate laws or
policies.

Key aspects of acceptance:

1. Inclusivity: All faiths are included and recognized.
2. Tolerance: Different beliefs are tolerated and respected.
3. Coexistence: Peaceful coexistence among diverse religious communities is promoted.
4. Mutual respect: Respect for different faiths and beliefs is encouraged.
5. Non-discrimination: No discrimination based on religion or belief.

Benefits of acceptance:
1. Promotes social harmony: Encourages peaceful coexistence among diverse communities.
2. Fosters inclusivity: Creates a sense of belonging among all citizens.
3. Encourages diversity: Celebrates diverse beliefs and practices.
4. Supports human rights: Upholds freedom of religion and conscience.
5. Enhances national unity: Strengthens national cohesion by recognizing shared values.

Challenges to acceptance:
1. Religious extremism: Intolerance and violence towards other faiths.
2. Stereotyping and prejudice: Negative attitudes towards certain religions.
3. Cultural and religious differences: Conflicts arising from differing beliefs and practices.
4. Historical legacies: Past conflicts and injustices affecting current relationships.
5. Globalization and migration: Increased diversity and potential for misunderstandings.

Acceptance of all faiths can be expressed in a variety of ways, including:

 Omnism
The belief that all religions are true, and people who hold this belief are called omnists.
 Tolerance
The idea that people have the right to believe what they want, and that one should not impose their own
beliefs on others.
 Respect
The idea that everyone has inherent worth and dignity, and that their right to hold their own beliefs
should be recognized.
 Acceptance
The idea that one should go beyond tolerance and embrace other religions, as truth is the basis of all
religions.
 Baháʼí Faith
A religion that was founded in the 19th century that teaches the unity of all people and the essential
worth of all religions.
 The Constitution of India
The Constitution of India states that the state should treat all religions in the country with equal respect.
 The United States Constitution
The 1st Amendment of the United States Constitution states that Congress shall make no law respe cting
an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.
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Fostering an environment of acceptance of all faiths means:
1. Respecting diverse beliefs: Valuing and honoring different religious and spiritual practices.
2. Recognizing equal validity: Acknowledging that each faith has its own unique value and
significance.
3. Embracing inclusivity: Creating a sense of belonging for all individuals, regardless of their
religious affiliation.
4. Promoting interfaith understanding: Encouraging dialogue, education, and cooperation among
diverse religious communities.
5. Fostering a culture of coexistence: Encouraging peaceful and harmonious relationships among
people of different faiths.
6. Avoiding judgment and criticism: Refraining from criticizing or judging others' beliefs, even if
they differ from one's own.
7. Encouraging open-mindedness: Being receptive to learning about and appreciating different
religious perspectives.
8. Supporting freedom of religion: Upholding the right to practice, profess, and propagate one's
faith without fear of persecution or discrimination.
9. Celebrating diversity: Embracing the richness and diversity that different faiths bring to society.
10. Cultivating empathy and compassion: Fostering a sense of understanding and kindness towards
all individuals, regardless of their religious background.
By embracing acceptance of all faiths, we can create a more harmonious, inclusive, and equitable society
where everyone can thrive.

By accepting all faiths, secularism promotes a culture of inclusivity, respect, and understanding, allowing
diverse religious communities to thrive and contribute to society.

2.5: ENCOURAGING NON-DISCRIMINATORY PRACTICES

2.5.1: Introduction:
Non-discriminatory practices refer to actions, policies, and behaviors that:
1. Treat all individuals equally: Regardless of their race, gender, religion, caste, age, disability, or
any other characteristic.
2. Avoid bias and prejudice: Do not assume or judge individuals based on stereotypes or
preconceived notions.
3. Respect diversity: Value and celebrate differences, promoting an inclusive environment.
4. Ensure equal opportunities: Provide fair access to resources, services, and opportunities for all.
5. Foster a culture of inclusion: Encourage participation, engagement, and sense of belonging
among all individuals.
6. Address and prevent discrimination: Take proactive measures to prevent and address
discriminatory behavior.
7. Promote equal treatment: Ensure that policies, practices, and decisions do not disadvantage or
marginalize specific groups.
8. Encourage diversity in representation: Ensure diverse representation in decision-making
processes, leadership, and public life.
Examples of Non-Discriminatory Practices:
1. Inclusive language: Using language that respects all individuals and avoids bias.
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2. Diverse hiring practices: Ensuring equal opportunities in recruitment, selection, and promotion.
3. Accessible infrastructure: Designing physical and digital spaces that are accessible to all.
4. Cultural sensitivity training: Educating individuals to appreciate and respect diverse cultures and
beliefs.
5. Zero-tolerance policy: Implementing policies that strictly prohibit discriminatory behavior.
6. Equal pay for equal work: Ensuring fair compensation for all individuals, regardless of their
background.
7. Inclusive education: Providing educational resources and opportunities that cater to diverse
needs and backgrounds.
By adopting non-discriminatory practices, we can create a fair, just, and inclusive environment that
values and respects the dignity of all individuals.

2.5.2: Encouraging Non-Discriminatory Practices

To encourage non-discriminatory practices, consider the following strategies:
1. Education and Training: Provide regular workshops, training sessions, and resources to raise
awareness about diversity, inclusion, and non-discrimination.
2. Clear Policies: Establish and communicate clear policies and procedures that prohibit
discrimination and promote inclusivity.
3. Leadership Commitment: Demonstrate leadership commitment to non-discrimination and
inclusivity, setting the tone for the organization.
4. Diverse Representation: Ensure diverse representation in decision-making processes, leadership,
and public life.
5. Inclusive Language: Encourage the use of inclusive language in all communication, avoiding bias
and stereotypes.
6. Accountability: Hold individuals accountable for discriminatory behavior, addressing incidents
promptly and fairly.
7. Feedback Mechanisms: Establish feedback mechanisms for reporting incidents or concerns,
ensuring confidentiality and protection from retaliation.
8. Inclusive Environment: Create an inclusive physical and digital environment, accommodating
diverse needs and promoting accessibility.
9. Community Engagement: Engage with diverse communities, fostering partnerships and
collaborations that promote inclusivity.
10. Continuous Monitoring: Regularly monitor and assess practices, policies, and culture to identify
areas for improvement.

2.5.3: Benefits of Encouraging Non-Discriminatory Practices:

1. Promotes inclusivity and diversity
2. Enhances reputation and credibility
3. Fosters a positive work environment
4. Supports creativity and innovation
5. Encourages diverse perspectives and ideas
6. Improves decision-making and problem-solving
7. Enhances customer satisfaction and loyalty
8. Supports legal compliance and risk management
9. Fosters a culture of respect and empathy 9

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10. Contributes to social cohesion and community building
By encouraging non-discriminatory practices, organizations can create a fair, inclusive, and respectful
environment that values diversity and promotes equal opportunities for all.

2.5.4: Ways to encourage non-discriminatory practices:

 In the workplace
Employers can:
 Train staff: Ensure staff are aware of their responsibility to not discriminate and can
recognize and understand discrimination.
 Train managers: Train managers to deal with discrimination complaints.
 Have a non-discrimination policy: Clearly define protected characteristics and state that
discrimination is not tolerated.
 Establish a reporting process: Have clear guidelines for reporting incidents of
discrimination and harassment.
 Investigate complaints: Investigate complaints promptly, thoroughly, and impartially.
 Take corrective action: Take prompt and effective corrective and preventative action
when necessary.
 In Educational Institutions
Educational Institutions can:
 Challenge stereotypes: Use inclusive language and promote the benefits of diversity.
 Involve students: Encourage students to discuss controversial issues, promote student
voice, and involve them in peer education and mediation.
 Welcome parents: Welcome parents and involve them in school decision-making.
 Partner with the community: Form partnerships with different organizations and groups in
the community.
 In public administration
AI and big data systems can be used to tackle discrimination and inequality. For example, AI can be
used to remove demographic details from police reports to help eliminate bias.
 In the community
You can join community meetings, or organize events like photo exhibitions, debates, or meet -ups to
bring attention to issues of inequality. You can also tutor immigrant children or refugees, or run
workshops on equality.
 In social care
You can treat people as unique, and provide person-centered care. You can also work in a non-
judgmental way.

©©©©©©

Compiled By:
Prof. S. SENTHILKUMAR, M.Com., B.Ed., M.B.A., M.Phil.,
Associate Professor.
Department of Mechanical Engineering.

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