What a New Survey Reveals About Religion's Waning Influence on American Society
A recent survey conducted by the Pew Research Center reveals that a significant majority of U.S. adults, totaling 80%, perceive a diminishing role of religion in American life. This figure marks the highest percentage recorded in Pew surveys on this topic. Interestingly, most individuals expressing this sentiment are not pleased with the trend. Nearly half, constituting 49% of U.S. adults, believe that religion's waning influence is a negative development. Conversely, 8% perceive a growth in religion's influence as positive.
Despite the prevailing perception of religion's decline, a combined 57% of U.S. adults maintain a favorable view of its influence on American life. However, findings from the survey also highlight a nuanced perspective on religious engagement in public life, particularly regarding the presidency. Approximately half of U.S. adults consider it important for a president to exhibit strong religious beliefs, even if they differ from their own. Nevertheless, only a minority view President Joe Biden or former President Donald Trump as "very" religious, with 13% and 4% respectively holding this perception.
Moreover, the survey underscores a sense of unease among Americans regarding the trajectory of religion in society. This unease transcends religious affiliations, extending to both religious and nonreligious individuals. Nearly half of U.S. adults perceive a conflict between their religious beliefs and mainstream American culture, a notable increase from previous years. Additionally, a growing percentage considers themselves religious minorities, while a significant proportion advocates for avoiding religious discussions amidst disagreements.
Partisan differences further underscore the complex landscape of religious perceptions in the United States. Republicans generally exhibit a greater inclination towards religious influence in governance and public life compared to Democrats. For instance, Republicans are more likely to advocate for the Bible's precedence over the will of the people in legislative matters. Similarly, a substantial proportion of Republicans support declaring Christianity as the official religion of the United States.
Furthermore, the survey delves into perceptions of moral and religious qualities in presidential candidates. While the majority of Americans prioritize a president's moral and ethical conduct, opinions diverge on the importance of strong religious beliefs. Republicans and Christians, particularly White evangelical Protestants, place greater emphasis on aligning presidential candidates' religious beliefs with their own.
Interestingly, despite varying perceptions of religiosity, both President Biden and former President Trump receive generally unfavorable views overall. Notably, White evangelical Protestants exhibit more favorable views towards Trump and unfavorable views towards Biden, reflecting partisan divisions within religious communities.
Moreover, the survey sheds light on attitudes towards Christian nationalism, an ideology that has garnered attention for its perceived impact on American democracy. Although awareness of Christian nationalism remains consistent, the survey finds no substantial change in public perceptions of this concept. Notably, a significant minority of Americans advocate for measures associated with Christian nationalism, such as diminishing the separation of church and state and endorsing Christianity as the country's official religion.
