secularism
/ˈsɛkjələrɪzəm/
Definition
The principle or practice of maintaining the separation of religious institutions and ideologies from the functions of the state and public policy.
Etymology
The word is derived from the Latin 'saecularis,' meaning 'of or belonging to the world' or 'of an age.' It entered English in the mid-19th century through the work of George Holyoake, who sought to promote a social philosophy based on worldly life rather than religious dogma.
In the news
The article uses the term to describe political candidates who, like Abelardo de la Espriella, reject the influence of religious or progressive social agendas like 'gender ideology' in government affairs. This highlights a central ideological conflict in the election regarding how much religious or traditional conservative values should dictate public policy.
Five Outcomes of Colombia’s First Round Presidential Elections
Read the full article ↗Washington Office on Latin America | WOLA