Page 1 - Lesson Notes -Std-8-civics-Chap 2-Subtopic 1-what is secularism

SAI INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
VIRTUAL LEARNING MODULE 4 (2.1), 2020 – 21
Subject – Civics
Chapter – 2: Understanding Secularism
Class – VIII
Sub topic 1: What is Secularism?

Lesson Notes

NOTES

Pages: 18, 19, 20, 21, 22

 History gives us examples of discrimination

 The Jews were persecuted in Hitler’s Germany and how several millions were

killed.

 In Saudi Arabia non-Muslims were not allowed to build churches or temples.

 These acts of discrimination take place more easily when one religion is

given official recognition by the State at the expense of other religions.

 Fundamental Right- Right to Freedom for Religion. The Indian Constitution

allows individuals the freedom to live by their religious beliefs and practices.

 Secularism- Separation of religion from State power. The tyranny of the

majority could result in the discrimination and at times even killing of religious

minorities.

 We also need to protect the freedom of individuals to exit from their religion

and embrace another religion. E.g. Untouchability. If low caste Hindus are

persecuted by the high caste Hindus then they should have the freedom to

exit from their religion.