scapegoat
someone or something that is innocently made to bear the blame or punishment for the sins or misdeeds of others
schism
a split or division within the ranks of an organization
scrutinize
to examine closely or critically
Secular
not religious; pertaining to worldly (as opposed to spiritual) matters; pertaining to the state
senile
showing the signs of old age, especially advanced mental or physical deterioration
solace
comfort or consolation in sorrow, distress, or misfortune
sordid
filthy and mean; morally degrading or reprehensible
stamina
endurance; the moral or physical strength required to withstand hardships or overcome obstacles
stereotype
a conventional, usually oversimplified, conception or representation of something
stigmatize
to brand or characterize as blemished or disgraceful
stipulate
to specify or demand as a condition for agreement; to guarantee or affirm
strategy
an overall plan of action designed to achieve a specific goal
strident
loud and harsh in sound
surveillance
close observation of a person or group considered suspicious; a continuous watch for the purpose of direction or control
syndrome
a group of traits, symptoms, or signs that collectively characterize a disease or social condition