Role of Secularism in Shaping Political Ideologies in Finland

Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the role of secularism in shaping political ideologies in Finland. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: The study revealed a complex interplay between religion, governance, and societal values. Secularism, defined as the separation of religion from state affairs, has been influential in shaping modern political ideologies across the globe. Findings suggest that secularism serves as a cornerstone for pluralistic and democratic societies, promoting tolerance, individual freedoms, and equality. However, the impact of secularism varies significantly depending on cultural, historical, and regional contexts. In some cases, secularism has led to the marginalization of religious communities, while in others, it has fostered a more inclusive and diverse political landscape. Additionally, researchers highlight the evolving nature of secularism and its intersection with other ideologies, such as liberalism, socialism, and nationalism, underscoring the dynamic relationship between religion and politics in contemporary society. Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Modernization theory, post-secularism theory and pluralist theory may be used to anchor future studies on assessing the role of secularism in shaping political ideologies in Finland. Practitioners, including educators, community leaders, and civil society organizations, should prioritize promoting secular education and fostering interfaith dialogue. Policymakers should recognize the importance of secular values in promoting democratic governance and social cohesion.