Secularisation Thesis
The sociological hypothesis that modernization inevitably produces secularization (decline of religion's social significance). Weber, Berger, and early sociologists predicted that rationalization, scientific knowledge, and pluralism would erode religion's cultural authority. However, persistent and renewed religiosity globally challenges simplistic secularization predictions.
Real World
Despite decades of predicted decline, the United States remains one of the world's most religiously active nations, with Pew Research data showing over 65% of Americans identifying as Christian in 2023, directly contradicting Weber and Berger's secularization predictions.
Exam Focus
When 'assess' questions appear, always counter the thesis with global evidence — examiners reward sustained evaluation, not one-sided argument.
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