secularization theory
Secularization theory suggests that as societies progress, particularly through modernization and scientific advancement, religious influence and authority diminish. This means that people increasingly rely on logic, reason, and empirical evidence rather than religious explanations for understanding the world. In many developed countries, this shift can lead to a decline in religious practices and beliefs. However, secularization doesn't mean the complete disappearance of religion; rather, it may transform how individuals engage with spirituality or belief, often leading to a more personal and less institutionalized form of faith.
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Secularization Theory suggests that as societies progress, especially through modernization and scientific advancement, religion tends to lose its influence in public life and individual beliefs. This process can manifest as a decline in religious affiliation, practices, and communal religious activities. The theory argues that as people become more educated and exposed to diverse ideas, they often rely more on reason and empirical evidence rather than religious explanations for life’s questions. While this trend doesn't eliminate religion entirely, it often transforms its role, leading to a more secular society where religion is less central in everyday life.