RELIGION, SECULARISM AND POLITICAL SYSTEM – STATE

Abstract

The aim of this research paper is to attempt to explore the issues related to the relationships between: state - religion; state - freedom of religion; political culture - religion; political system – religion. These concepts are important because of their actuality and the peace and security which they can bring on an international, national and European level.Considering the fact that we are living in a contradictory world which is in need of a dialogue of civilizations and religions, we decided to explore exactly this topic which poses itself as a great challenge.It is indisputable that religion is an important element of the political culture and an important factor in the political system, which is all due to the fact that the political tradition is inseparable from the cultural and religious aspects. Religion is an active element of social dynamics, often conditioning social processes and at the same time conditioned by them. Many social changes affect religion and its location. Religion is often a geopolitical factor, as well as a factor of national (dis)integration.In this scientific paper, we will try to emphasize religion as an element of political culture and a factor or determinant of the political system. By doing so, we will contribute to our thesis that: secularism and religious pluralism should be viewed as a solution to a dialogue rather than a clash which may arise between religions, cultures, and civilizations.