UK Researchers Declare First Atheist Age

A major study led by Queen’s University Belfast indicates that Britain is entering its 'first atheist age', with more atheists than theists for the first time. The research, which surveyed nearly 25,000 people across six countries, found that the stereotype of atheists as lacking purpose and morality is unfounded. Data shows a significant increase in the number of individuals identifying as non-religious, with 42.9% of the population not believing in God as of 2018. The study highlights the influence of parental upbringing on religious belief, suggesting that the growing non-religious sentiment may change with incoming immigrant populations who hold religious beliefs. Researchers argue that the decline of religious belief is a result of a long-term cultural shift rather than individual factors like intelligence or personal trauma. This study provides a comprehensive view of the changing landscape of belief in the UK, emphasizing the complexities surrounding identity and spirituality.