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Honour thy parents and grandparents: Exploring the intergenerational transmission of Christianity and non-religion in white British families.

Lead Research Organisation: Lancaster University
Department Name: Politics Philosophy and Religion

Abstract

Abstract
In recent years Britain has witnessed dramatically decreased levels of Christian belief, practice and affiliation; particularly among young people (Savage et al, 2006). Although resulting from many complex factors, difficulties passing the faith to younger generations are considered largely responsible (Voas and Chaves, 2016; Brown, 2009; Woodhead, 2016; Myers, 1996). In contrast, non-religion enjoys more successful inter-generational transmission - Woodhead describes it as 'sticky' in a way that religion is not' (2016, p. 249) - growing rapidly as a result. Multiple studies note this trend (Scourfield et al,
2012; Woodhead, 2016) but are unable to explain why it exists. The present project will rectify this by interviewing Christian and non-religious individuals - on their own and with their families - to explore and observe belief transmission, and highlight reasons behind each group's differing outcomes.

Publications

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