Question

Do you think there is a future for religion as an important societal organizing structure in the West?

Answer 1

In my perception, I do not see any future for religion as an important societal institution in west. Religious participation is declining in West even though religion is still very popular. According to the recent study conducted by Pew Research Forum there is a declining trend among the Americans especially among adolescents. The drop in religious participation is larger among whites, and less among blacks. In words of Psychologist Jean Twenge rise in narcissism and self centeredness among youth is the major reason for declining religious participation. There are four psychological reasons for declining in religious participation among Americans.

1. Organized religion versus Spirituality- According to this view, People seems to be shifting their search for meaning by looking within rather than to the heavens. This may be motivating a decline of interest in organized religion.

2. Tribalism versus Humanitarianism-Globalism may be driving a rise in interest in interfaith activities. As we relate more to people globally, we may realize that ours is not the only true religion.

3. Traditional versus non-traditional families-Historically, organized religions have relied heavily on the family to raise religious children and recruit new church members. Today we have a major restructuring of the family, with fewer than half of US kids living in a traditional family. This change in family structure may be responsible for less successful religious training and recruitment of young people.

4. Trust versus loss of confidence in institutions-Confidence in religion, in particular, is at an all-time low, partly because of religious scandals in the Catholic Church and elsewhere. Such scandals encourage cynicism among many observers regardless of their religious affiliation.

Therefore, from the above discussion, the religion as a societal organization is in declining trend.