Secular Nation

Just how secular are we? I am interested in the religious trends in found in our society and was intrigued by the information regarding the secularization in America found in my sociology textbook. The debate that exists either see's secularization as a trend in society that diminishes the power of religion or simply a non-factor when it comes to the significance of religion around the world.

I can only speak for my experience when it comes to this topic and it seems clear to me that there is a growing secularization of society. The statistics from the 1970's to 2008 show the same percentage of young Americans still believing in "God" but less and less individuals consistently going to church. The new testament writer James says that a faith without works is nothing. In the same way sociologists say that religion should "take the form of ritual practices, specialized activities." (Giddens, 528) While just as many people believe in some spiritual form of "God," less are attending any kind of clear meeting which can remind, focus and guide people to live with a greater purpose. I believe this creates a more personal form of God that has no clear boundaries for how to live life.

As our society grows more individualistic, the role of religion will have a similar effect. Choices, consequences, and habits become a personal thing for each person to decide for themselves. This focus on the religiosity of people is just one dimension sociologists look at regarding secularization. Other ways to view secularization is in the degree to which churches maintain influence in society through wealth or status. I think that the individual response to religiosity is a better way to discuss this issue and ultimately influences the role of religion on a larger scale in society.