Statistics have been released recently which suggest that religion is a diminishing prospect. It needs to be asked therefore, whether religion still has a place in society, whether it will be respected by future generations and whether it will eventually die out.
St Mary’s University in Twickenham recently presented results of a survey suggesting 48.5% of the population in 2014 defined themselves has having ‘no religion’ – almost double the results for non-religious people in the 2011 census .
Religion has always been a prominent part of English society, with Christianity being the official religion of the country, with a strong connection to the state. If the Church were to lose its significance and influence, it would necessitate a real change in societal structures. For example, the monarchy is considered the ‘Defender of the Faith’ for the Church of England – this would need adapting. Bishops also still have the right to sit in and vote in the House of Lords, a key political influence of the church.
Religious pluralism is evident in the UK, with many religions present in our society. Despite the St Mary’s survey showing an increase in non-religious people, Hindu membership in the UK has more than doubled in the last forty years. This suggests that perhaps change is happening in the country with a more equal balance of different religions rather than Christianity being situated at the centre of society. Nonetheless, Christianity is still the largest worldwide religion with over 2 billion followers, followed closely behind by Islam and then, Hinduism.
What is obvious from this data and other survey results is that (particularly with regard to Christianity), religion is losing its influence as it passes through generations. Some would suggest that religion is not as imposed during the period of child socialisation as it used to be. The survey shows that despite over a third of the UK population being brought up Anglican, only a fifth now identify as such. That less religious socialisation occurs, the faster religion’s influence will decrease. 50% of all Christians in England and Wales are over the age of 55, and this demographic appears to be slowly increasing. Current youthful generations share completely different morals and values to what the Church of England and many other religions promote which may be a reason why religious convictions appear to have less influence. A revolution of the church is absolutely necessary in order that it is accessible for the largest number of people. The hierarchy of the church must be deconstructed and the core beliefs should be promoted, without the redundant practices and ideas that are no longer needed.
Although generations are becoming less involved with religious organisations, religions and religious leaders are still trying to make religions more accessible. Some would consider this a ‘watering down’ of beliefs, which has been criticised by more traditional theists. For example, the Pope recently expressed views on divorce that were in contrast with previous popes and traditional Catholics. This alteration of beliefs for any religion can be challenged strongly by many but it then makes religious belief relevant, accessible and applicant in a modern society.
Surveys and data suggest that all religions will slowly deplete until they are non-existent. Some would suggest we would then live in an atheist society, bounded by science, rationality and logic. However, the Church of England responded to the survey with a statement saying the survey suggests “a growing plurality in society rather than any increase in secularism or humanism. We do not have an increasingly secular society as much as a more agnostic one”.
Faith is still evidently important in society but perhaps religion itself is losing significance. Different versions, adaptions and denominations of main religions are emerging to suit the spiritual needs of society and this may be the way forward. Belief does not necessarily mean belonging and the label of a certain religion may not appeal to some. However, the belief in the supernatural and non-physical may still be prevalent, despite the decrease in religious adherence.
Words by Will Moore