How is an affirmation different from an oath?

An affirmation is distinct from an oath primarily because it does not reference a supreme being. This allows individuals who may not subscribe to a religious belief or who prefer a secular affirmation to provide their commitment to tell the truth or fulfill a duty without invoking a deity.

In legal contexts, both affirmations and oaths serve the purpose of prompting honesty and commitment, but the key difference lies in the phrasing and acknowledgment of a higher power. An oath typically involves swearing before a deity, which can be an important component for those with religious convictions. In contrast, an affirmation asserts one’s honesty without such a reference, thereby making it equally valid but more inclusive for those who choose secular affirmations.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence or the key differences between oaths and affirmations. For instance, affirmations do not have to involve a signature for legitimacy nor are they inherently less legally binding than oaths. Additionally, while some affirmations may be recorded, it is not a defining characteristic of the process. The nature of not invoking a supreme being remains the core distinction.