2012-10-08-皮尤-_Nones_on_the_Rise_80页_577kb

1. Rise of the Unaffiliated: One-in-five U.S. adults (19.6%) identify as religiously unaffiliated, up from 15.3% in 2007. This group is youngest (35% are 18-29), with one-third of adults under 30 unaffiliated. Growth is driven by generational replacement, with unaffiliated Millennials (34%) compared to previous generations.

2. Subgroups:

   • Atheists/Agnostics (12/17%): Young, male-heavy, less politically liberal.
   • Nothing in Particular (71%): Broadest group, more diverse; 58% believe in God.

3. Religious Practices:

   • Less attend services (5% weekly) and pray. However, views on God and spirituality vary. Most are not actively seeking a religion.

4. Political Views:

   • Strongly Democratic (63% identify as Democrat or lean), especially compared to the public. In 2008, 75% voted for Obama.
   • Support abortion and same-sex marriage (72/73% respectively) but similar to the public on government size.

5. Critique of Religion:

   • 70% view organized religion as too concerned with money/power, and 67% too involved in politics. Atheists/agnostics are more critical than the public.

6. Sociodemographics:

   • More likely to be single, male (56%), and non-Hispanic white. Educational/income levels similar to the public, except atheists/agnostics.

7. Historical Context:

   • Trend continues longer-term declines in religious attendance, belief certainty, and god-belief. Secularization theories are debated.

Methodology: Based on a 2012 survey with 2,973 adults, plus targeted recontacts for unaffiliated respondents (N=958). High statistical confidence margins noted.