Individuals who are essentially neutral with regard to organized religion, generally affirming neither belief nor disbelief and uninvolved in a religious, faith or philosophical community; or have their own personal philosophy and no affiliation with an organized religion. Also included are individuals who are adherents of more proactive or well-defined philosophies such as secular humanism, atheism or agnosticism, most of which can be classified as religions in the sociological sense, albeit secular religions. Secularism asserts the freedom from the government imposition of religion upon people within a state that is neutral on matters of belief and gives no state privileges to religions. It may also refer to the belief that human activities and decisions, especially political ones, should be based on evidence and fact rather than religious influence.
Taxonomy Code: YR-6580
<< Back to Subject Heading List