Christians Could Become a Minority in the US Within Decades.

There has been much debate in recent years about the role religion should play in schools and everyday life. Many people stand by the belief that America is a “God fearing Country” while others strongly advocate for religious freedom. One of the constitutional amendments is “freedom of religion” so how important is religion to the people of our country?

Statistics Show. 

Many people, particularly younger generations, are moving beyond religious norms and forming their own beliefs, be it exploration of new religions or forgoing any type of religion at all. Some identify as “spiritual” which does not necessarily tie into one religion but simply takes principles of religion such as treating others with kindness or not lying and lives by those principles. Surveys have shown that in 2020 the number of Americans who identified as Christian, had dropped about 30 percent since the 1970’s. In 1972 around 90 percent of Americans identified as Christian. In 2020, other religions accounted for around 6 percent of the population, and the other, roughly, 30 percent didn’t identify with any religious beliefs. 

Demographics.

Many Western European countries, such as Britain, have also begun shifting into a less religiously affiliated population. In 2009, the number of religiously unaffiliated citizens outgrew the Christian population. Some other interesting facts about the changes in the Christain population include how gender roles impact religious affiliation. Based on the survey, men seem more likely than women to shy away from religious beliefs. Statistics also show that people who become unaffiliated after being raised in a Christian household are more likely to obtain a college degree than those who continue to believe in the Christian or other religious beliefs thrust upon them during their upbringing. 

Predictions for the Future.

These kinds of social patterns are difficult to predict because people are constantly “evolving” to discover new ideas and perspectives that can alter how one views religious practices and principles. However, based on the current rate, it is predicted that between 2060-2070, Christians would make up only 54 percent of the population. While Christians would still be the largest religious group in the US, the numbers would be lower than in previous generations. According to the survey, a number of factors that could play a part in the changing patterns we’ve seen with regards to religious beliefs or affiliations.

Things like war, social movements, and economic or natural disasters are just a few examples. It is because one is more likely to reevaluate their belief system during times of crisis or mass panic. In varying degrees, one of the main points taught by all religions, is merely the importance of being a good person. Jesus was said to honor and seek ways to help the homeless, poor, and disabled.

Taoism teaches the concepts of Yin and Yang, about achieving balance between the negative and positive aspects of life. Buddhism teaches about Karma, how each action has a consequence, or multiple consequences, and that we are all interconnected to each other and the world as a whole. Judaism teaches humility, generosity, and to care for others in the same way you would yourself. Regardless of your religious affiliation, or if you have none, we are all sharing this planet we call home.

Living a life that encompasses humility, love, and compassion ensures that we all thrive together to create brighter lives for ourselves and future generations.