SECULARISM Vs RACISM

Although there are many forms of societies in the world but let’s talk about a comparison between Secularism and Racism as these forms are so much intermingled these days that it has become difficult to understand that particular State like India and Israel is following which form as their societal structure. Let’s take them one by one!

Secularism:

In the opinion of many Secularisms is a principle that advocates the separation of religion from government and public affairs. It promotes a neutral stance on matters of religion, ensuring that all citizens, regardless of their beliefs, are treated equally under the law.

Some of its positive aspects are:

  1. Protects religious freedom by preventing the dominance of any one religion.

  2. Fosters a diverse and inclusive society where people of all faiths and non-faith can coexist peacefully.

  3. Promotes rational decision-making in governance, reducing the potential for religious bias.

While its Con side is reflected in the following ways:

  1. Some argue that secularism can lead to a loss of moral values or a sense of cultural identity.

  2. There can be challenges in defining the boundaries between religion & public life, leading to debates and conflicts.

Racism:

Coming to the racism it is considered as a belief system or ideology that discriminates against individuals or groups based on their racial or ethnic background. It involves prejudice, bias, and discrimination against people of certain races, often leading to unequal treatment and opportunities.

There are no pros that can be related to racism. It is widely condemned as harmful and unethical, perpetuating inequality and division in society. As it leads to social injustice, inequality, and violence. It harms individuals and communities, hinders social progress, and fosters hatred and division.

While comparing both we can easily say that Racism and secularism are fundamentally different concepts. Racism promotes discrimination based on race, while secularism seeks to ensure a separation of religion from public affairs. Racism is universally condemned for its harmful effects, while secularism is a principle embraced in various forms around the world. While Secularism aims to create a fair and inclusive society, whereas racism perpetuates inequality and division. In short we can say, racism is a harmful ideology that discriminates based on race and has no pros. Secularism, on the other hand, is a principle that advocates the separation of religion from government and public life, with pros including protection of religious freedom and fostering a diverse society, but it may also face challenges in implementation.

When it comes to the acceptability, we find out that Secularism is generally more accepted and embraced as a form of governance and ideology in the world compared to racism. Some of the reason in highlighted forms are.

1. Legal Frameworks: Many countries have secular legal systems or include provisions for religious freedom and equality in their constitutions. These legal frameworks aim to protect the rights of individuals regardless of their religious beliefs.

2. Global Consensus: There is a global consensus against racism. International agreements, such as the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, condemn racism and promote equality among races.

3. International Norms: Secularism aligns with international norms and principles of human rights. Organizations like the United Nations promote religious freedom and the separation of religion from the state, which are key components of secularism.

4. Humanitarian Values: Secularism is often associated with values like freedom, equality, & tolerance, which are widely seen as positive & desirable. Racism, on the other hand, is universally condemned for its harmful & divisive effects.

While secularism is generally more accepted, it's essential to recognize that the level of acceptance and implementation can vary significantly from one country to another. Some countries have a strong commitment to secularism, while others may have more religiously influenced governance structures. Additionally, efforts to combat racism and promote equality continue to be essential worldwide.

Secularism is widely considered better than racism for several compelling reasons:

1. Promotion of Equality

2. Respect for Human Rights

3. Social Harmony

4. Ethical and Moral Values

5. Global Consensus

In conclusion, secularism is considered better than racism because it upholds principles of equality, human rights, social harmony, and ethical values. Racism, in contrast, is universally condemned for its harmful effects on individuals and society. Embracing secularism and rejecting racism is a step toward creating a more just and inclusive world.

Being a Muslim and representing almost 2 billion Muslims in the world who follow Islamic Values and form of society we better take a look as what Islam says about both these forms and which is more acceptable one for the Muslim to be friends with.  Islam, like many other religions, has a diverse range of interpretations and perspectives on issues such as racism and secularism. It's important to note that there is no single, universally accepted stance on these topics within the Muslim community, as interpretations can vary based on cultural, historical, and theological factors.

Islam explicitly condemns racism. The Quran emphasizes the equality of all human beings, stating that "O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you" (Quran, 49:13).

The Prophet Muhammad is reported to have said in his Farewell Sermon, "All mankind is from Adam and Eve. An Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab, nor does a non-Arab have any superiority over an Arab; a white has no superiority over a black, nor does a black have any superiority over a white; none have superiority over another except by piety and good action."

However, views on secularism within the Muslim community vary widely. Some Muslims believe that Islam can coexist with secular governance and that it is possible to separate religion from politics and state affairs. Others argue for an Islamic state where Islamic law (Sharia) plays a central role in governance and public life. While some countries with Muslim-majority populations have adopted secular or semi-secular systems while respecting religious freedoms.

Summarizing all, Islam condemns racism and promotes the equality of all human beings. Views on secularism within Islam vary, and there is no one-size-fits-all perspective, as interpretations can be influenced by various factors.

In the end before closing the whole discussion a question arises in the mind as either Pakistan is a Secular nation or not and the specific answer to this is No, Pakistan is not a secular state. Pakistan is officially known as the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and is an Islamic state. Islam is the state religion, and Islamic principles influence its legal system and governance. The preamble to Pakistan's constitution explicitly identifies Islam as the state religion, and various provisions of the constitution reflect the role of Islamic principles in the country's legal and political framework.

While Pakistan's constitution does include some provisions for the protection of religious minorities and their rights, the overall governance structure of the country is influenced by Islamic principles. Therefore, Pakistan is commonly categorized as an Islamic state rather than a secular one.

BY OVAIS ASAD KAHN