Secularism vs Capitalism
Secularism and capitalism are two different concepts that are being talked about a lot these days. The two thought systems or principles are poles apart as secularism is a way of looking at things in a worldly manner and not on the basis of their religious affiliations. On the other hand, capitalism is an economic system that has been characteristic of the western world where private ownership of means of production is practiced and preached. This article attempts to highlight the two concepts so as to make clear the differences between secularism and capitalism.
Secularism
Secularism is a concept that is applicable on individuals but mostly used in the context of governments. Secular is a word that describes a state that keeps itself separate from the religion being practiced by its people. Religion is a subject that pervades all aspects of our lives and we are not away from being religious at all times. However, there are instances or acts that are secular in nature as when we are eating or sleeping.
A state can choose to be religious, or it can declare itself as secular, giving equal importance to all religions being practiced by its citizens. India is a prime example of secularism where the state is secular and does not discriminate on the basis of religion or creed of the people. All religions are equal in the eyes of the state whether it is the religion of the majority or a religion of the minorities.
Capitalism
Capitalism is a concept in economics that encourages private ownership of means of production. This is in sharp contrast to socialism where all are equal, and no one is allowed to generate profits more than he needs.
Capitalism motivates people to work hard to earn more profits whereas profit making is denounced in socialism and communism. Every citizen is given equal opportunities to grow, and free markets are the chief characteristic of any capitalist country. Free markets mean there is the rule of demand and supply and consumers are free to choose a particular product over other products.
Secularism vs Capitalism
• Secularism is the rule of the law where a state does not interfere in the affairs of religions
• Capitalism is a socio-economic theory that believes in the rights of the individual over the rights of the state
• A capitalist state can be secular or religious depending upon its choice and circumstances
• Capitalism is more of an economic theory while secularism is more of a tool devised to keep religion away from the governance
There is no ideal or perfect system of governance, neither is there a perfect economic theory despite communism having fallen from grace in many parts of the world