OS SÍMBOLOS RELIGIOSOS NA ESFERA PÚBLICA: O DEBATE ATUAL DA LAICIDADE NO BRASIL

Abstract

This study investigates the model and the degree of secularism as adopted in Brazil, having the incidence of the exposure of Christian religious symbols in public spaces as a base. As premises, it takes the influence of the Christian culture in the formation of the Brazilian culture, as well as statistical data that prove Christianity to be the major national religion. The work shows the main theoretical concepts of the secular models adopted in the Western world. It also lists the constitutional articles related to the Brazilian secular principles, as well as presents legal texts that clearly show our country's secular model. Moreover, it points out the concept, influence, strength and use of symbols in the Brazilian cultural and religious formation. It investigates the current debate that arises tension and conflicts between religion and the concept of a secular State in Brazil. It lists bills, propositions and court judgements that deal with the exposure of Christian symbols in public spaces, all of which define the country's degree of secularism. In short, based on secular concepts, constitutional guarantees, the public exposure of religious symbols and court judgements, this study aims at identifying the boundaries of secularism in the Brazilian State.