According to new research, the UK now has more atheists than people who believe in God. The study, conducted by the global project Explaining Atheism, suggests that the UK is entering its first atheist age. The project challenges the stereotype that atheists lead lives lacking in meaning, morality, and purpose.
The research team surveyed nearly 25,000 individuals from six countries, including the UK, to understand why people become atheists and agnostics. They analysed data from the British Social Attitudes Survey and World Values Survey to show that the UK now has a relative majority of atheists.
Led by Professor Jonathan Lanman from Queen’s University Belfast, along with researchers from University of Kent and Brunel University London, the project received funding from the John Templeton Foundation. The team found that societal factors play a crucial role in shaping one’s beliefs, debunking popular theories such as intelligence or family background influencing religious beliefs.
Dr. Lois Lee stated that atheism has been prevalent in the UK’s culture for a while, with prominent figures like Karl Marx, George Eliot, and Ricky Gervais. However, it is now that atheists outnumber theists for the first time in UK history.
The researchers also highlighted that common explanations for belief in God, such as intelligence or fear of death, lack empirical support. Parental upbringing and societal expectations were identified as key influencers on belief in God. Despite non-belief in God, many atheists and agnostics hold supernatural beliefs.
The research found that atheists and agnostics endorse moral values, human dignity, and inherent rights similar to the general population. The project aims to challenge negative stereotypes and stigma towards both atheists and theists and combat harmful misconceptions. Dr. Aiyana Willard emphasised the importance of dispelling false claims and promoting understanding among individuals with differing beliefs on the existence of God.
The study sheds light on the evolving religious landscape in the UK and aims to foster meaningful conversations around belief systems and values in society.