In a recent survey, Americans expressed a variety of attitudes about religion. More women than men expressed positive views of religion, while college-educated adults were less likely to hold a positive opinion of religion. In all three countries, religious affiliations accounted for about a quarter of all adults. A majority of Americans said religion provides meaning and moral guidance.
Although spirituality is often mistaken for religion, there is an important distinction between spirituality and religion. Spirituality is a personal, experiential practice. It involves the search for meaning and the fulfillment of significant goals. On the other hand, religion is a communal practice aimed at shaping character and attitudes. While spirituality may focus more on the soul, religion emphasizes rules and rituals.
Religion can serve as a source of social support, a source of meaning, and an incentive to adopt a healthy lifestyle. However, it may be compromised by abuse, hypocrisy, and extremism. Large-scale acts of terrorism, such as terrorist attacks and racist rallies, give religion a bad name. Small-scale secret terrorism can also harm a religion’s reputation. For example, many lay preachers live sordid lives behind closed doors.
Religions are often rooted in centuries of history. They have a creed, moral code, and rituals. Members of a particular religion often follow distinct dress codes, observance of moral codes, and other rites. They also adhere to moral codes and laws that are dictated by a supernatural being.