Question
Explain secularization as a process of social change.

Answer

This is one of the cultural processes that bring about social change. Secularization is a process of social change through which the influence of religion declines in public affairs. The importance of religion in regulation of social life decreases and is taken over by utilitarian consideration. Science replaces religion as the primary approach to understand the natural and social worlds. The term secularization implies that the issues which were previously regarded as religious are no longer the same. New developments in social and cultural areas have led to secularization of the Indian social and cultural life. The struggle for freedom increased secularization and mobilization of the masses. Mobilization of people against social evils in Hindu Society increased the feeling and notions of secularization. This was further strengthened by attaining independence freedom of religion. This is however more pronounced amongst the urban and acceptance of the Republican Constitution of India which guaranteed people rather than rural people. It has considerably reduced and weakened the ideas of pollution and purity related to the caste system. The styles of life are more influenced by the job requirements and occupations rather than by caste and religion.However, people are being mobilized on caste and religious line in the domain of politics for gain by "vested interest" groups. The family system and village community are greatly influenced by the process of secularization”. Ceremonies, rituals and religious practices are assuming new meaning and festivals are becoming popular amongst all, irrespective of their religious significance. At the village level there is more awareness of rights and expectations have risen specially from the government.

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