"No Religion" Now Most Common Religion in Australia

Summary

The latest Australian census reveals that 'No religion' has become the most common response to religious affiliation, at 30.1% of the population, reflecting a significant shift in the country's religious landscape. This trend is particularly strong among younger Australians (ages 18-34) and mirrors a broader global pattern where secularism rises alongside scientific advancement and reduced stigma. The discussion explores potential factors influencing religious affiliation, such as societal tolerance, economic conditions, and cultural identification, while questioning what might reverse this trend in the West. The video also includes a promotion for Taga Dab hosting services, offering a discount to viewers.

Takeaways

• 😀 Australia's most recent census reveals that 'no religion' is now the top religious classification.
• 📈 30.1% of Australians now report no religious affiliation, up 8 points since 2011.
• ✝️ Catholicism remains the second most popular religion in Australia at 22.6%, but many who identify as Catholic may not actively practice.
• 👫 The 18-34 age group is most likely to report no religion, reflecting changing trends in religious affiliation.
• 📊 New South Wales is the most religious state in Australia, with two-thirds of its population identifying with a religion.
• 💬 The growing number of people identifying as non-religious may reflect reduced stigma around atheism and agnosticism.
• 🌍 Australia ranks among the top 10 non-religious countries globally, alongside nations like China, Japan, and Scandinavian countries.
• 🎭 Many people, especially in cultures like Judaism, may still identify with a religion for cultural or ethnic reasons, even if they are secular.
• 🇺🇸 Atheists in the US remain heavily stigmatized, rated lowest in surveys measuring attitudes towards religious groups.
• 📉 Poverty levels often correlate with religiosity; as poverty decreases, people tend to move away from religion, but disasters or calamities could reverse this trend.

Q & A

What is the most popular religious classification in Australia according to the latest census?

The most popular religious classification in Australia is 'no religion,' according to the latest census results.

How has the percentage of people reporting 'no religion' changed since 2011?

The percentage of people reporting 'no religion' has increased by about 8 points, from 22.1% in 2011 to 30.1% in the most recent census.

What is the second most popular religious classification in Australia?

Catholicism is the second most popular religious classification, with 22.6% of the population identifying as Catholic.

Why might some people still identify as Catholic even if they don't actively practice the religion?

Some people identify as Catholic for cultural reasons, much like how secular Jews may still identify as Jewish, despite not actively practicing the religion.

Which age group in Australia is most likely to report having no religion?

People aged 18 to 34 are the most likely to report having no religion in Australia.

Which Australian state has the highest percentage of people identifying with a religion?

New South Wales is the most religious state in Australia, with two-thirds of its population reporting a religious affiliation.

Why might the number of people identifying as 'no religion' appear higher than it actually is?

Christianity is divided into many denominations, and when combined, it still represents a larger group than those identifying with 'no religion.'

What factor may have contributed to more people openly identifying as atheist or non-religious in Australia?

The reduction of stigma around being non-religious may have contributed to more people openly identifying as atheist or non-religious.

How does the identification with religion in Australia compare to other countries?

Australia ranks among the top 10 most non-religious countries, along with places like China, Japan, and Scandinavian countries.

What are some potential events that could cause a resurgence in religiosity according to the discussion?

Events such as a major calamity, increased poverty, or even the appearance of a deity could potentially cause people to return to religion for comfort.