Secularization is the process by which religious institutions, practices, and beliefs lose their social significance. This shift often occurs as societies become more modern and scientific, leading to a decline in the influence of religion on public life and governance. People may begin to prioritize rational thought and empirical evidence over religious explanations. As a result of secularization, many individuals identify as atheists or agnostics, while others may still hold spiritual beliefs without adhering to organized religion. This trend can be observed in various regions, particularly in Western societies, where secular values increasingly shape laws, education, and cultural norms.