So I work in the local area and have been at my place of work for sometime. One day I am not sure how it came up but twice in one day I was told 'Americans are viewed to be very religious'. This took me back, I wouldn't have personally said that Americans are more religious than the British. They also said that this would be why the British are hesitant to talk about religion with us. I guess it amazes me the more we try to separate church and the rest of life.
After researching for this blog, it turns out that Americans are more religious than the British. 44% of Americans say that they go to church once a week whereas 27% of British do. It is stated that Ireland has some of the highest attendance in the world.
America is one of the most religiously diverse nation in the world. My research for this blog showed that religion was a huge part of American life because of the separation of church and state. The founders designed it to be this way, if they leave the government out it, it will take care of itself. Also we are more vocal about our faith which I think also helps with this impression.
But I thought I would give you a taste of an opinion that the British have on us.
Hi! I just came across your blog- I'm from Cambridge but have some american friends. I think we view Americans as more religious because of the prevalence of the religious right in American politics, which seems to give the impression that elections etc. are fought on religious grounds (such as abortion, or bringing their take on Christianity to knock socialised healthcare or whatever). There's also the fact that many Americans regard creationism as 'controversial', and that there are therefore (many) children who do not learn what it means in school. Obviously the media plays a large part in this view, but it seems to be far more the case over there than it is here: I have no idea of most politicians religious views, and unless it effects their policies, which are fought on party grounds anyway, then it doesn't matter to me.
ReplyDeleteI think it is because of the extremism of the right and the bible belt that we assume that for the religious right to dictate such a lot of policy and every day life etc. that Americans must in general be more religious.
Thanks for your comment. Watching the US news over here, I can see what you mean.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the comment!