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How Secularism Functions Like a Religion

Secularism is often seen as a neutral space free from religious influence, but postmodern anthropologist Talal Asad argues otherwise. According to Asad and other scholars, secularism operates in a quasi-religious manner, shaping society with its own doctrines, rituals, and belief systems.

Secularism as a Moral and Political System

Religions establish ethical frameworks, such as Christianity’s Ten Commandments or Islam’s Sharia, and secularism enforces its own moral principles in a similar fashion. Some of its core values include:

• Freedom of speech and expression, though often limited by social norms.
• Progressive values, such as LGBTQ+ rights, which are upheld with the same fervor as religious commandments.
• The idea of religion as a private matter, a concept rooted in Christianity but imposed on other faiths.
• Competition with religion, as secularism does not remain neutral but actively reshapes religious thought and practice.

Sacred Texts and Social Dogma

Just as religious communities revere their scriptures, secular societies treat certain documents as untouchable foundations:

• The U.S. Constitution and the Declaration of Human Rights are often regarded as infallible.
• Questioning democracy or secular principles can be seen as heretical, leading to social and political backlash.

Rituals and Symbols in Secular Society

Religious traditions incorporate rituals and sacred symbols, and secular societies do the same:

• Standing for the national anthem and respecting national flags.
• Observing memorial days for fallen soldiers, resembling religious commemorations.
• Taking oaths in courts and political offices, akin to religious pledges.

The Missionary Nature of Secularism

Like religions that provide meaning to life and a moral mission, secularism promotes ideals such as human rights, democracy, and freedom as absolute truths. Many Western states justify international interventions under the guise of spreading democracy and human rights, a process that strongly resembles religious evangelism.

Excommunication and Punishment in Secularism

In religion, apostasy—leaving the faith—can lead to excommunication or social punishment. In secularism, challenging dominant social norms can result in public shaming, career destruction, or legal repercussions. For example, publicly criticizing progressive ideals can lead to being "canceled," losing a job, or even being banned from social spaces.

The Separation of Church and State: A Myth of Neutrality?

One of the core principles of secularism is the separation of church and state, supposedly ensuring a neutral governance system. However, Asad and other scholars argue that secularism does not eliminate religious influence—it simply replaces it with its own ideological framework. Laws and policies continue to be shaped by secular moral values, which act as a form of governance similar to religious legal systems.

In practice, secular states often restrict religious expressions in public life, making neutrality more of an illusion than a reality. The debate over religious symbols in public spaces, such as hijabs in France or crosses in government buildings, highlights the power dynamics of secular governance.

Conclusion: Secularism is Not Neutral

Secularism is not merely the absence of religion—it behaves like a religion itself, enforcing beliefs, rituals, and punishments. It is an active ideology that seeks to reshape society according to its own values rather than allowing true neutrality.

What do you think? Can secularism truly be neutral, or is it just another form of belief system?