America’s nonreligious are a growing, diverse phenomenon. They really don’t like organized religion

America’s nonreligious community, often referred to as the “nones,” is a diverse and steadily growing phenomenon that is reshaping the country’s religious landscape. This group encompasses a wide range of beliefs and backgrounds, and while it’s challenging to summarize them, a few common threads emerge.

Many nones are individuals who have distanced themselves from organized religion, often citing concerns about control, financial exploitation, and scandals within religious institutions. For them, spirituality is a personal and unique experience that doesn’t require affiliation with any particular faith. They span across various demographics, including class, gender, age, race, and ethnicity.

A significant portion of nones identifies as atheists, agnostics, or “nothing in particular.” However, it’s essential to note that not all nones reject spirituality entirely. Some maintain their own spiritual beliefs, ranging from concepts of God, prayer, and heaven to alternative practices like karma, reincarnation, astrology, or a belief in the energy of crystals.

The nones’ rise is especially pronounced among young adults, with nearly four in ten individuals under 30 identifying as nonreligious. This demographic shift is having a substantial impact on the overall religious landscape, particularly among moderate to liberal Protestants, whose numbers are declining.

For many nones, leaving organized religion has been a path to greater personal freedom and the opportunity to explore spirituality in their own way. They often find community and support in non-religious contexts, whether through secular homeschooling groups, addiction recovery programs like the Twelve Steps, or simply by connecting with like-minded individuals who share their values and beliefs.

While scholars express concern about the loss of communal support as people drift away from traditional congregations, nones assert that they are content with their decision to leave organized religion behind. They emphasize the importance of finding communities that align with their beliefs and values, whether those communities are based on secular principles, shared hobbies, or a deeper connection to nature.

In summary, the nones in America represent a diverse and growing segment of the population who have chosen to distance themselves from organized religion in search of personal spirituality and community that aligns with their values. This shift is reshaping the religious landscape of the United States, particularly among younger generations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Nonreligious Trends

More about Nonreligious Trends

• The Rise of the “Nones” in America
• The “Nones”: Understanding America’s Growing Nonreligious Population
• Religion in America: U.S. Religious Landscape Study
• The Twelve Steps and Spirituality
• Lilly Endowment Inc.