Laicist: meaning, definitions and examples

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laicist

[ˈleɪɪsɪst ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

secularism

A laicist is someone who advocates for laicism, which is the principle of separation between religion and state. Laicists support the idea that religion should not interfere in government affairs or public education, promoting a secular society.

Synonyms

agnostic, secularist, straightforward.

Examples of usage

The laicist movement gained momentum in the early 20th century.
Laicists argue that public institutions should remain neutral regarding religious matters.
In a laicist state, religious practices are typically kept separate from governmental functions.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term comes from the Greek word 'laikos', meaning 'of the people', emphasizing laypersons over religious leaders.
In French, 'laïcité' refers to the state of being secular, influencing many legal systems around the world.
The concept gained traction during the Enlightenment, promoting reason and science over faith in public discourse.

Historical Context

The laicist movement in France during the late 19th century sought to reduce the church's influence in schools and government.
In Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk's reforms established a laicist state, prioritizing secularism in education and law in the 1920s.
Some countries, like the United States, incorporate laicist principles in their constitution to ensure freedom of religion and belief.

Cultural Impact

Laicist ideas are debated in various countries, affecting discussions on the role of religion in public spaces such as schools and government offices.
Prominent secular movements advocate for laicist policies as a means to promote equality among all citizens, regardless of faith.
Cultural events and laws can spark discussions about laicist principles, often leading to protests or significant legal cases.

Psychology

Research indicates that laicist beliefs can correlate with educational levels and access to information, leading to more secular viewpoints.
Social psychologists study laicism as part of broader themes of how belief systems shape societal structures and individual identities.
Cognitive dissonance theory often explains the tensions individuals may feel when their beliefs conflict with laicist ideals in a diverse society.