Ross Douthat, a New York Times Opinion columnist and author of "Believe: Why Everyone Should Be Religious," discusses the necessity of belief in today's secular world. He highlights the cultural shift towards spiritual curiosity among younger generations, addressing the challenges of faith in a post-religious society. Douthat explores the concept of 'spiritual freelancing' and the importance of traditional frameworks for community and wisdom. He argues for a rational approach to faith, emphasizing that the journey toward belief is both valuable and personal.
The decline of organized religion among young Americans creates a compelling opportunity for them to explore foundational questions about faith.
Encouragement to engage with established religious institutions rather than spiritual freelancing fosters a more grounded and authentic spiritual experience.
Deep dives
Cultural Landscape of Secularization
A growing number of young Americans have little to no exposure to organized religion, marking a significant cultural shift. This generation, often referred to as the most unchurched in American history, faces a backdrop of increased spiritual curiosity amidst rising secularism. While several years ago, confident atheism was prominent, today there is a sense of anxiety and emptiness regarding a life devoid of religious context. This creates a unique opportunity for individuals to explore foundational questions about the nature and purpose of religion itself.
Rethinking Religious Beliefs
The book argues against abandoning religion based on doubts about specific doctrines, suggesting that such doubts should not lead to the complete rejection of faith. It emphasizes that individuals can question their upbringing or certain teachings while still valuing the broader, enduring aspects of faith. This perspective allows for a personal examination of beliefs without the risk of destabilizing one's entire religious foundation. Encouraging a thoughtful approach to faith, it fosters an environment where questioning is seen as part of a healthy spiritual journey.
Exploring Spirituality with Caution
Many individuals engage in what is termed 'spiritual freelancing,' picking and choosing elements from various traditions to create a personal belief system. However, this approach is cautioned against, as it opens individuals up to potentially harmful spiritual influences. Instead, the book advocates for participation in established religious institutions that have been historically vetted, providing structure and communal reinforcement for faith practice. It suggests that engaging authentically with a larger tradition is likely to yield a more grounded and truthful spiritual experience.
Spiritual Experiences Across Cultures
The prevalence of mystical experiences, such as near-death encounters, suggests a significant spiritual layer to human existence, transcending cultural boundaries. Various cultures report strikingly similar experiences despite divergent religious teachings, indicating a potential universal spiritual reality. While skeptics may argue these experiences are mere reflections of cultural conditioning, the commonalities pose a challenge to materialist perspectives on spirituality. Ultimately, the book suggests that acknowledging these experiences can lead individuals toward a greater understanding and appreciation of the divine.
Ross Douthat has been a New York Times Opinion columnist since April 2009. Previously, he was a senior editor at the Atlantic. He is the author of The Deep Places; The Decadent Society; To Change the Church; Bad Religion; Privilege; and, with Reihan Salam, Grand New Party. He is the film critic for National Review, and lives with his wife and five children in New Haven, Connecticut. We’ll be talking today primarily about his new book Believe: Why Everyone Should Be Religious.