A concept frequently encountered in human geography, particularly within the context of political systems and cultural landscapes, denotes the separation of religious institutions and figures from governmental affairs and public life. This separation implies that governmental decisions should be based on reason and evidence, rather than religious doctrine. An example includes France’s policy of lacit, which promotes state neutrality in religious matters, influencing public education and the display of religious symbols in government buildings.
The rise of this principle is often associated with increased modernization, rationalization, and the decline of traditional religious authority. Its implementation aims to foster a more inclusive and equitable society by preventing the imposition of one religion’s values on the entire population. Historically, movements advocating for this principle emerged as a response to religious conflicts and the perceived limitations of theocratic governance, promoting individual religious freedom and tolerance.
