Mormon Stories Podcast Is Religion Dying in the U.S.? – Goodbye Religion by Ryan T. Cragun and Jesse M. Smith | Ep. 1972
Dec 12, 2024
Ryan T. Cragun, a scholar on religiosity, and Jesse M. Smith, a sociologist and social psychologist, explore the rising trend of religious disaffiliation in America. They reveal that about 30% of the U.S. population identifies as non-religious, a significant increase from the 1990s. The duo discusses the implications for communities, especially the Mormon Church, and challenges misconceptions about secularization. They emphasize how leaving religion is often empowering, leading to new forms of social engagement and community connection.
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Rise of the Nones
- Religious disaffiliation in the U.S. rose from 7% in 1990 to about 30% today.
- This trend aligns with Pew Research Center findings and other major surveys.
Impact of Cold War's End
- The end of the Cold War significantly impacted religious affiliation.
- The fall of "godless communists" removed a major stigma associated with non-belief.
Demographics and Disaffiliation
- Demographics are not strong predictors of religious disaffiliation.
- While some demographic differences existed historically, they are shrinking as disaffiliation grows.