Nonverts: The Making of Ex-Christian America

The United States is experiencing a religious revolution, with around a quarter of US adults now saying they have no religion. Sociologist and theologian Stephen Bullivant's book "Nonverts" explores who these non-religious individuals are and why they have joined the rising tide of the ex-religious. It provides an entertaining and insightful exploration of the ex-religious landscape, showing how the traditions they left behind continue to shape them. The book also highlights the profound social, cultural, moral, and political impact of this revolution.

Format: Hardback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 12 April 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

The United States is experiencing a profound shift towards non-religion, with approximately one-quarter of American adults identifying as having no religion. This phenomenon is commonly referred to as a "non-religious revolution." While some individuals may have previously been part of a religious tradition, they have now transitioned to a state of non-belief. These individuals are known as "nonverts," a term coined by sociologist and theologian Stephen Bullivant to describe those who have moved from religious belief to non-belief.

Nonverts explores the characteristics and motivations of these individuals, shedding light on their backgrounds, experiences, and reasons for leaving their former religious affiliations. Through dozens of interviews, original analysis of high-quality survey data, and a wealth of cutting-edge studies, Bullivant provides an entertaining and insightful exploration of the ex-religious landscape in America.

One of the key findings of Nonverts is that the ex-religious population is diverse and includes individuals from various religious backgrounds, including Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, and Hinduism. Bullivant crisscrosses the country, conducting interviews with ex-Mormons in Utah, ex-Catholics in Pennsylvania, ex-Evangelicals in Georgia, and ex-Muslims in California, among others. Through these conversations, he demonstrates not only what these individuals have in common but also how the traditions they left behind continue to shape their lives.

While American religion is not going to disappear anytime soon, the presence of ex-Christian America is growing in national life. The non-religious revolution is not just a religious transformation; it is also catalyzing profound social, cultural, moral, and political impacts. Nonverts will serve as an indispensable guide to this shifting landscape, as well as the future of American life.

In conclusion, the United States is in the midst of a religious revolution, characterized by a growing number of non-religious individuals. Nonverts explores the characteristics and motivations of these individuals, shedding light on their backgrounds, experiences, and reasons for leaving their former religious affiliations. Through its comprehensive analysis, the book provides valuable insights into the ex-religious landscape and its impact on American society. As the non-religious population continues to grow, Nonverts will remain an essential resource for understanding the future of American life.

Dimension: 210 x 140 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197587447