Arguments against secularisation thesis

Davie - unchurched

Davie argues that declining church attendance does not necessarily mean that religious beliefs are declining. Instead, people are becoming “unchurched”, meaning they no longer attend or belong to a church but may still hold religious beliefs. Therefore, secularisation may involve a decline in religious participation rather than a decline in personal faith.

Davie - vicarious religion

Davie developed the concept of vicarious religion to explain how people can believe in religion without actively practising it. A small, active minority of clergy and regular churchgoers perform religious rituals on behalf of the wider population, who generally approve of these activities. Davie compares churches to the NHS, describing them as a “Spiritual Health Service” that people can turn to when needed. Vicarious religion is particularly visible during major events, such as Princess Diana’s death, and through religious ceremonies such as baptisms, weddings and funerals.

Browne

Suggests that around 90% of funerals involve a religious ceremony.

Lyon

Re-enchantment of the world

Lyon argues that modern society has experienced “re-enchantment”, challenging Weber’s view that the world is becoming less religious. Globalisation has exposed people to unconventional beliefs, practices and spiritualities, including Eastern religions, New Age movements and Wicca. Modern spiritual movements have become more popular by focusing on personal experiences and offering more women-friendly forms of religion. Therefore, traditional religious attendance may decline while alternative forms of spirituality grow.