Personal beliefs and spirituality are found deep in our subconscious. Managed poorly, they can lead to systemic challenges for people and government as shown in the long running conflicts in the Middle East.
As shown below, religious beliefs also exert a powerful hold (toll?) on our notions of morality.
They can even influence state policy whenever politicians allow their religious beliefs to enter the fray. Past and on-going discussions about IR resorts and LGBT rights testify to its hold on public perception.
How does the state strike a careful balance between the interests of different religious groups here?
Consider these views from the government and civil society. The comments contributed by netizens in the third link shed more light on how issues are viewed in reality.
Govt:
http://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/unrealistic-to-say-religion-is-no-longer-sensitive-issue-pm-lee
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/moe-to-consider/1970246.html
http://www.todayonline.com/singapore/handle-matters-religion-personal-preference-restraint-tharman
Civil Society / NGO:
https://newhumanist.org.uk/articles/4104/secularism-in-singapore
http://www.ipscommons.sg/the-challenge-of-navigating-singapores-new-diversities/
In Science / Bioethics:
https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2003/08/stem-a12.html
https://embryo.asu.edu/pages/singapore-bioethics-advisory-committee
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