ò Now, only people with deeply held religious convictions choose to participate in religious services. ò Many young people are no longer being encouraged to participate in religious services by their parents. They do not seem to miss what they have never known.
2. The range of choices
ò Thanks to improved education and the impact of the mass media (e.g. internet), people are more aware of the wide variety of beliefs they can choose from, both religious and non-religious. This leads some to reject religious belief altogether, while leaving others confused about it.
3. The rise of materialism
ò Many people are more focused on achieving success in this life. They are much less interested in questions about what happens to them in the afterlife.
ò Shopping, socialising or involvement in a leisure activity (e.g. a sport) seem to be more attractive and worthwhile ways to spend your Sunday for many people.
4. The challenge of science
ò Some people consider religious beliefs and practices to be unnecessary. They think that science can answer all the questions that really matter.
5. The impact of scandals
ò The number and frequency of scandals involving the abuse of power by some members of the Catholic clergy has undermined some people’s confidence in the Catholic Church.
The Non-Religious Worldview
A small but significant number of Irish people make sense of the world by accepting a non-religious worldview.
REMEMBER! A non-religious worldview says that we can find happiness and fulfilment in our lives without any belief in God or an afterlife.
One of the most influential non-religious worldviews is that offered by humanists.
Norma McElligott, one of twelve accredited humanist celebrants in Ireland.
