Secularist

A secularist is an advocate for secularism. Secularism is the principle of separation of the state from religious institutions and beliefs. A secularist believes that religious considerations should not influence government policies, public education, or other aspects of public life. They prioritize rational, evidence-based decision-making and strive to create a society where individuals are free to practice, or not practice, any religion without government interference or preferential treatment. This often involves advocating for laws protecting religious freedom while also ensuring the state remains neutral on matters of faith.

Secularist meaning with examples

• The activist, a staunch secularist, argued for the removal of religious symbols from public buildings, believing they promoted division within the community. Their speeches focused on the importance of equality and inclusivity for all citizens, irrespective of their religious beliefs or lack thereof. The secularist consistently opposed government funding for religious schools, emphasizing that public funds should serve the entire populace, not just those adhering to specific faiths.
• Driven by a core belief in the separation of church and state, the politician presented herself as a committed secularist, always emphasizing evidence-based policy. She campaigned on a platform that promoted inclusivity and respect for all beliefs. The secularist supported the repeal of any laws that discriminated on religious grounds, striving to foster a truly pluralistic society where individual freedoms were paramount. The secularist felt the need to protect people of all beliefs.
• After a long era of religious dominance in policy-making, the country's constitution was rewritten and made secularist, based on human rights and freedom for all. The change was supported by many groups, including those that were religious. A prominent figure in the movement and a strong secularist, fought tirelessly for the secular reforms, often clashing with religious leaders who opposed the changes, seeing them as a threat to their influence.
• The publication's editorial board, comprised of informed secularists, consistently critiqued proposals that sought to incorporate religious principles into the school curriculum. Their analysis provided a framework for considering the benefits of a broad and inclusive curriculum. They published articles that defended free speech and the right to express diverse viewpoints. The secularists provided strong backing for arguments centered on science, reason, and a critical approach to all ideas.
• The organization, established by committed secularists, worked to promote human rights and equality by advocating for policies based on social justice and equal treatment. They filed lawsuits against institutions that displayed religious bias. A core tenet of the organization's approach, favored by secularists, was public education on the principles of secularism. The organization believed it necessary to keep religious and political power separate to protect individual liberty and promote a better society.