According to the British Social Attitudes Survey (BSA), the number of Christians in Great Britain is now down to 42%. Those who claim no religion are up to 51% and is trending.
While this may seem surprising here in the United States, it really isn’t all that surprising to those in England. Out of the three political parties there, two are led by open atheists and the third party is led by a Prime Minister who claims that his faith comes and goes.
Here in Philadelphia, these numbers seem surprising even to atheists. When I mentioned this, many were skeptical and wanted to know the source. This is natural considering that atheists tend to be skeptical people but also because America and England share a common history and we in some sense we see the two nations as similar.
The fact is that while England has just crossed the threshold of a majority of non-religious, America is also trending in that direction. According to the last American Religious Identification Survey, non-religious is up in every states and growing. Also, a recent Gallup Poll showed that belief in young Earth Creationism in America is down to 40% while belief in Evolution not guided by God is up to 16%. While 40% seems like a high number, this number was 44% just two years ago.
Please check out the Atheism 101 series for frequently asked topics
If you enjoy this article, please share the link on facebook, twitter, reddit, and others. Be notified by e-mail about the latest articles by the Philly Atheist Examiner using the "Subscribe” button at the top of the page. Also consider hitting the "like" buttons at the top of the page.
Comments
Like most developed countries that have a state religion, religion has been falling away at an ever-accelerating pace. Maybe we should let the Evangelicals in America get their way and establish a state religion. I can think of nothing else that would cause a falling away from Christianity faster.
Except they would probably start a new Crusade or an American Inquisition before things started to settle and people start to revert to disbelief.
Sorry, meant this to be a reply to Hugh's post above
So there is still hope for america?SOme rational thought ongoing in al the stupidity?
It's not a minority religion.... which religion is the majority? Atheism/agnosticism/irreligion is not a religion.
None.
I find this statistic depressing: "while belief in Evolution not guided by God is up to 16%."
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!