Laicisation or "lay-see-suh-zey-shun" is the process of secularization or the removal of religious influence from a situation or organization. The word is derived from the French term "laïcisation" and is spelled with a "c" instead of an "s" in order to reflect the French spelling. The phonetic transcription "ley-see-suh-zey-shun" closely resembles the pronunciation of the word, with emphasis placed on the "ley" and "suh" syllables. This term is frequently used in discussions about the separation of church and state.
Laicisation refers to the process of secularization or the removal of religious influence or control from various aspects of society, particularly in government, education, and public institutions. The term is derived from the word "laic," which means secular or non-religious.
In a dictionary definition, laicisation can be described as the act or state of transforming a religious or spiritual entity into a secular or non-religious one. This process often involves the diminishing or elimination of religious practices, doctrines, or symbols from areas such as politics, education, legal systems, and social institutions. It reflects a shift towards non-religious or neutral principles, policies, and practices.
Laicisation can take various forms depending on the context and degree of religious influence being removed. It may involve revising laws or regulations to eliminate religious bias, promoting religious neutrality in public spaces and institutions, separating religious institutions and organizations from state affairs, or even the decline of religious observance and belief within a society.
The aim of laicisation is often to ensure the separation of church and state, guarantee religious freedom, promote equality among individuals of different religious beliefs or none, and foster a more inclusive and pluralistic society. Supporters of laicisation argue that it facilitates the fair and impartial treatment of all citizens and protects individual freedoms, while critics may argue that it erodes traditional values or infringes upon religious rights.
The word "laicisation" comes from the Latin term "laicus", meaning "layperson". It is derived from the Greek word "laikos" which also means "belonging to the people" or "pertaining to the laity". The suffix "-ation" is added to form the noun "laicisation" which refers to the act or process of becoming a layperson or being rendered secular or non-clerical.