laicism

laicism

A country's constitution enshrines the principle of laicism.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • Secularism in political and social contexts: "laicism" refers to the principle or policy of separating religious institutions from the state and public life, emphasizing a non-religious (secular) framework for governance and society.
    • Non-clerical orientation: It denotes the state or condition of being free from ecclesiastical control or influence, especially in education and government.
Usage Examples
  • (The state's legal system is separate from religious authority.)
  • (A policy of secularism in public institutions.)
Advanced Usage

  • "Laicism as a political doctrine": a formal ideology that advocates for the removal of religious influence from state affairs.

    • The rise of laicism in the 19th century challenged the power of the church in European governments. (The secular movement reduced ecclesiastical authority.)

  • "Laicism vs. secularism": While often used interchangeably, "laicism" specifically emphasizes active state neutrality toward religion, whereas "secularism" can be broader.

    • Scholars debate whether laicism implies hostility to religion or mere separation. (The term can carry different connotations.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Laic (adj): relating to or characteristic of the laity; non-clerical.
    • The laic members of the church council voted on community outreach. (Non-ordained participants.)
  • Laicize (verb): to make secular; to remove from ecclesiastical control.
    • The government moved to laicize the school system, ending religious oversight. (To secularize.)
  • Laity (n): the body of religious worshipers who are not clergy.
    • The laity often supports laicism to limit church power in politics. (Non-clerical believers.)
Synonyms
  • Secularism: the principle of separation of religion from political, social, and cultural institutions.
  • Separation of church and state: a specific policy aligned with laicism.
  • Non-religious governance: a descriptive synonym for laicist systems.
Related Idioms
  • "To keep religion out of the state": an idiomatic expression of laicism.
    • Many advocates of laicism argue to keep religion out of the state entirely. (Maintain secular governance.)
Phrasal Verbs
  • "To laicize off" (rare): to formally remove religious control.
    • The committee decided to laicize off the hospital from church management. (To secularize.)