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  • (French) The concept of a secular state, that is, the absence of religious interference in government affairs and government interference in religious affairs. While it is thought that no English word captures the exact meaning of laïcité, which comes from the Greek λαϊκός (laïkós "of the people", "layman"), it is sometimes rendered in English as laicity or laicism. Laïcité is a main component of both the liberal and republican traditions in Europe. (Wikipedia)

    May 29, 2008

  • “Traditionally, the republican school, born of the French Revolution, was the breeding ground for citizens. The shift from these schools is another indication of the challenge facing the strict form of secularism known as ‘laïcité.�?

    The New York Times, French Muslims Find Haven in Catholic Schools, by Katrin Bennhold, September 29, 2008

    October 1, 2008