Secularisation in America

What did Wilson argue about religion in America?

Wilson argued that religion did not become secular but instead was Americanised to fit the ‘American way of life’

According to Bruce how does religion in America stay active?

Bruce argued religion in America has remained popular due it becoming less religious.

To expand, Bruce argues that traditional Christian beliefs have declined in America with religion being turned into a form of therapy. This change has adapted religion to fit within a secular society.

The purpose of religion in America has changed from seeking salvation in heaven to seeking personal improvement in this world.

What was Haadaway Et Al’s research on church attendance opinion poll rates?

That they were being exaggerated to show a higher attendance.

He found that opinion polls on church attendance has been about 40% of the population in 1940s. However when working with a team of researchers employed by major churches he found that there were rarely seats filled which meant 40% attendance was not possible.

Criticms of secularisation theory

• religion is not declining but simply adapting to contemporary society

• evidence of less church attendance ignores people who believe but are not able to physically attend church

• Secularisation may have happened in Europe but not globally

• Religious diversity does not decline religious thought but rather increases participation as it offers more diversity.