What are the patterns and trends of religion, belief and faith?

This topic explores the changing patterns of religious belief, affiliation, and practice in the UK and globally. Students examine statistical trends from sources like the British Social Attitudes Survey and the UK Census, focusing on the decline of traditional Christianity, the rise of 'no religion', and the growth of minority faiths such as Islam, Hinduism, and Sikhism. Key sociological debates include secularisation theory (Wilson, Bruce) versus religious vitality (Davie, Heelas & Woodhead), and the role of religion in modern, diverse societies.

Understanding these patterns is crucial because religion remains a significant social force, influencing politics, identity, and community cohesion. The topic connects to broader A-level themes like social change, globalisation, and postmodernity. Students must critically evaluate evidence for secularisation, considering counter-trends like the growth of Pentecostalism, the 'spiritual revolution', and the public role of religion in debates about multiculturalism. This knowledge helps students analyse contemporary issues such as religious discrimination, faith schools, and the rise of fundamentalism.

Within the OCR specification, this topic sits under 'Beliefs in Society' and requires students to apply sociological theories (functionalist, Marxist, feminist, postmodernist) to empirical data. Mastery of this content enables students to write balanced essays that weigh up competing perspectives and use specific studies (e.g., Grace Davie's 'believing without belonging', Steve Bruce's secularisation thesis) to support arguments.