Chapter 2 of Class 8 Social Science, titled Understanding Secularism, explains the concept of secularism and its importance in a diverse society like India. Secularism refers to the separation of religion from the state, ensuring that the government remains neutral towards all religions and does not favor any particular religion. The chapter highlights that in a secular state, individuals are free to practice any religion of their choice or even choose not to follow any religion at all, without fear of discrimination or persecution.