Origin of Secularism

and Criticism
Z104: History

Presented by

Ayman Rahman

Section A, BBA 21st

Institute of Business Administration,
University of Dhaka

Presented to

Ashfaque Hossain

MA, Mphil (Dhaka),Phd (Nottingham, UK)

Associate Professor, History
University Of Dhaka

WHAT IS SECULARISM?
Independence of
thought from religion
and of religion

Secularism was
independent ; not an
argument against
Christianity

George Jacob Holyoake

described it as a positive
alternative to atheism

Everlasting light and

guidance for
humanity

History of
Secularism

Secularism originated from Christendom extending

far back in the middle ages

Investiture Controversy the first real challenge to the

authority of the Catholic Church(11th Century)

The Magna Carta held the principle of separation of

the church and the state

The treaty of Westphalia resulted in elimination the

prospect of a Roman Catholic influence on Europe

Protestantism stayed

Secularism
and
Atheism

Common misconception:
The terms used interchangeably

Secularism: Philosophy
that public policies and
governmental decisions
should be kept segregated
religion, everyone is equal
before law

Atheism: Principle of
disbelief in the
existence of a
superior being

Secularism is not
Atheism

Atheism is disbelief, while

secularism is indifference
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Impact of
Secularism

Negative

Positive

Development of
individualism

Social institutions started

losing spiritual basis

Low priority of
religion in life

Emancipation of politics
and thought from religion

Impact of
Secularism

Personal freedom
and choice

Free thinking in art,

music and literature

Reflection of Secularism in the Works of Artists

Heavy influences of secularism in
Renaissance art

The Last Supper

Most famous High Renaissance artists

with secular influences: Vinci, Raphael,
Michelangelo

The Sistine Chapel

Criticisms
against
Secularism

Separation of citizens from

their religious roots
Emphasis on mortal
world

No sound basis
of morality

Criticisms
against
Secularism

Counter
Argument

State and Religion should take different paths

State and politics should take different paths

Tolerance among individuals
Religions cannot create winners/losers

No oppression of majority or sensationalizing

of minority

Counter Argument
by Advocates of
Secularism

THANK YOU!