What does secularization refer to in societal contexts?

Secularization in societal contexts refers to the decline of religious influence and power in social and political spheres. This process involves a shift where religious institutions and beliefs become less central to public life and governance. As societies modernize, there tends to be a movement towards valuing secular reasoning, scientific approaches, and democratic principles over religious doctrines in decision-making processes.

This can manifest in several ways, such as the separation of church and state, the adoption of secular laws, and the increasing prominence of secular moral and ethical frameworks in public policy. As secularization progresses, it often leads to a more pluralistic society where multiple belief systems coexist without any single religion dominating the social or political landscape.

Understanding secularization is crucial in examining how societal values evolve over time and how they impact governance, individual liberties, and cultural norms.