Religion, Spirituality and Secularity among Millennials: The Generation Shaping American and Canadian Trends

This book explores the world of religion, spirituality, and secularity among the Millennial generation in the United States and Canada, focusing on how Millennials are doing (non)religion differently in their social lives compared to their parents and grandparents. It considers the influences of the digital age, precarious work, growing pluralism, extreme individualism, environmental crisis, advanced urbanism, expanded higher education, emerging adulthood, and a secular age on the (non)religious and spiritual landscapes of young adults in North America.

Format: Hardback
Length: 182 pages
Publication date: 19 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into the intricate tapestry of religion, spirituality, and secularity among the Millennial generation in the United States and Canada, offering a profound exploration of the unique ways in which Millennials are navigating their (non)religious paths in their social lives. With a keen focus on the contrasting dynamics between Millennials and their parents and grandparents, the book sheds light on the profound influences exerted by the digital age, precarious work, burgeoning pluralism, extreme individualism, environmental crisis, advanced urbanism, expanded higher education, emerging adulthood, and the secular age on the (non)religious and spiritual landscapes of young adults in North America.

Drawing upon extensive primary and secondary quantitative data, complemented by high-quality qualitative research, including interviews and focus groups, this book presents a comprehensive cross-national comparison between the United States and Canada, highlighting the impact of diverse social environments on the experiences of religion, spirituality, and secularity among the continents most numerous generation. As such, it appeals to scholars of religion and sociology, with a keen interest in religious and societal change, as well as in the intricacies of religious practice among young adults.

In the opening chapter, the book sets the stage by providing a comprehensive overview of the Millennial generation, their unique characteristics, and the societal transformations that have shaped their lives. It explores the impact of technology, social media, and the globalized economy on the values, beliefs, and practices of Millennials, highlighting the ways in which these factors have influenced their (non)religious choices.

The subsequent chapters delve into the various influences that shape the (non)religious and spiritual landscapes of Millennials. The digital age, characterized by the pervasive presence of information and communication technologies, has had a profound impact on the way Millennials engage with religion and spirituality. The rise of social media platforms has facilitated the formation of online communities and the sharing of religious and spiritual experiences, while also providing a space for critical dialogue and the exploration of alternative beliefs.

Precarious work, characterized by low job security, irregular schedules, and limited benefits, has also contributed to the (non)religiousness of Millennials. The constant pressure to perform and succeed in a competitive job market has led many young adults to prioritize their personal well-being and self-expression over traditional religious practices.

Growing pluralism, characterized by the increasing diversity of religious and spiritual practices in society, has also played a significant role in shaping the (non)religiousness of Millennials. The rise of non-traditional religions, such as Buddhism, Hinduism, and Islam, has provided young adults with alternative belief systems that align with their values and aspirations. Additionally, the increasing acceptance of interfaith relationships and the recognition of the importance of cultural diversity have led Millennials to be more open-minded and inclusive in their (non)religious beliefs.

Extreme individualism, characterized by a focus on self-expression, personal success, and self-fulfillment, has also influenced the (non)religiousness of Millennials. The emphasis on individualism has led many young adults to prioritize their own spiritual journeys and personal growth over traditional religious institutions and practices. This has led to the emergence of new forms of spirituality, such as mindfulness, meditation, and yoga, which are often practiced in isolation and without the involvement of religious organizations.

The environmental crisis, characterized by the devastating effects of climate change, has also had a profound impact on the (non)religiousness of Millennials. The growing awareness of the urgent need to address environmental issues has led many young adults to become more environmentally conscious and to prioritize sustainability and social justice over traditional religious beliefs. This has led to the formation of environmental organizations and the adoption of eco-friendly practices in various aspects of life, including food consumption, transportation, and energy use.

Advanced urbanism, characterized by the growth of cities and the concentration of population, has also influenced the (non)religiousness of Millennials. The fast-paced and impersonal nature of urban life has led many young adults to seek meaningful connections and community in alternative spaces, such as community gardens, co-working spaces, and social clubs. This has led to the emergence of new forms of spirituality, such as urban spirituality, which emphasizes the connection between urban environments and personal well-being.

Expanded higher education, characterized by the increasing availability of college and university degrees, has also played a significant role in shaping the (non)religiousness of Millennials. The rise of higher education has provided young adults with a broader range of knowledge and skills, which has led them to be more critical and skeptical of traditional religious beliefs. Additionally, the increasing availability of alternative education programs, such as online courses and vocational training, has provided young adults with the opportunity to explore their interests and passions without the constraints of traditional religious institutions.

Emerging adulthood, characterized by the transition from adolescence to adulthood, has also had a profound impact on the (non)religiousness of Millennials. The challenges of navigating the transition from school to work, establishing personal relationships, and developing a sense of identity have led many young adults to seek meaning and purpose in their lives through alternative sources. This has led to the emergence of new forms of spirituality, such as self-help and personal development, which emphasize personal growth and self-awareness.

Finally, the secular age, characterized by the decline of religious institutions and the increasing secularization of society, has also influenced the (non)religiousness of Millennials. The growing acceptance of atheism, agnosticism, and secular humanism has led many young adults to question the relevance of traditional religious beliefs and practices. This has led to the emergence of new forms of secular spirituality, such as humanism and secular humanism, which emphasize the importance of human values and social justice.

In conclusion, this book offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the world of religion, spirituality, and secularity among the Millennial generation in the United States and Canada. By examining the diverse influences exerted by the digital age, precarious work, growing pluralism, extreme individualism, environmental crisis, advanced urbanism, expanded higher education, emerging adulthood, and the secular age, the book provides a rich and nuanced understanding of the unique ways in which Millennials are navigating their (non)religious paths in their social lives. As such, it appeals to scholars of religion and sociology, with a keen interest in religious and societal change, as well as in the intricacies of religious practice among young adults.

Weight: 521g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032106021