The Secular Principle—A Guiding Compass

The secular idea is politically potent. It has been variously applied throughout history to emphasise different theological, philosophical, and social trends. The meaning of the word 'secular' is highly contested. It comes from the Latin saecularis meaning 'an age', 'a generation', or 'a long time'. So, the setting up of secular as a mutually excluding opposite to religious, was a war of pedantry, confected by churchmen. The secular principle does distinguish between 'this world' and 'other world' (or religious) concerns, but on the basis of polity, not theology. The secular principle in education therefore encompasses: (1) state control and accountability; (2) removal of clerical influence and religious doctrine; and (3) inclusive respect and equity for all religions and none. Some view the word secularism in an unfriendly light, and see it as excluding of religion. Others claim it as a guarantee of freedom of and from religion.Keywords: clerical influence; saecularis; secular principle