Debates on secularisation

The Definition of Secularisation

Secularisation refers to the decline in the influence of religion in a society.
The concept can be understood from different perspectives such as decline in religious beliefs, practices, institutions, or the role of religion in shaping societal norms.

Major Theories of Secularisation

Weber’s ‘disenchantment’: Weber suggested that modernisation brings about rationalisation and secularisation, replacing religious explanations and resulting in ‘disenchantment’.
Berger’s ‘sacred canopy’: Berger believed that modern societies are degenerating the universal ‘sacred canopy’ that religions once provided.
Wilson’s structural differentiation: Wilson argues that the functions of religion are being taken over by other institutions, leading to religious institutions losing their influence.

Interpretations Regarding the Reality of Secularisation

Secularisation Thesis: Advocates of this view, such as Bryan Wilson, believe that religion is losing significance in the modern world. They point to the decreasing church attendance and the privatisation of belief as evidence.
Opposing Views: However, others such as Rodney Stark and William Bainbridge contend that religion is not declining but merely changing. They point to the rise of ‘new age’ spirituality, the growth of religious fundamentalism, and the ‘resacralisation’ of society.

Empirical Evidence

Evidence supporting secularisation includes declining church attendance, increasing religious diversity, and rising secular attitudes and behaviours.
However, there is also evidence challenging the secularisation thesis, such as high levels of reported personal belief, the growth of evangelical and Pentecostal movements, and the increase in religious diversity and pluralism.

Complexities and Diverse Experiences

The process and impact of secularisation can vary greatly by region, with countries such as USA showing high levels of religious belief and activity, while others such as Sweden show a high degree of secularisation.
There are diverse experiences within societies, with some groups (such as the young or highly educated) showing higher levels of secularisation than others.
The internet and digital media have created new spaces for religious belief and practice, complicating the secularisation narrative.

By understanding these debates, you can develop a thorough and nuanced understanding of secularisation and its complexities. It’s important to draw upon sociological theories and empirical evidence in your analysis.