Democracy, religion and secularism: reflections on the public role of religion in a modern society

Abstract

The present article focuses on the relationship between democracy and secularism and, in particular, the presumption that a secularist approach is the most practical solution to the problem of pluralism of beliefs. It raises the question of how far those countries in the West which claim to be democratic are justified in the way that they treat religion. Logical and pragmatic arguments are put forward suggesting that, in the name of the very values which they profess, secularists should extend a more generous hand to religion as opposed to continuing the suspicious, confrontational attitude inherited from the Enlightenment. The article finishes with some brief suggestions towards a practical solution for preserving the integrity of all, religious and non-religious alike, in the public arena.

Keywords:

• democracy
• pluralism
• religion
• secularism