New Survey Indicates Big Increase in Religion's Influence on American Life

[Gauracandra 1]

Last week, we reported that attendance at worship services -- which had surged immediately after September 11th -- has gone back to normal. This week, that finding was confirmed by another poll. There was also news of a big jump in the number of people who think religion is increasing its influence in American life.

 

The survey was conducted by the Pew Research Center and the Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life. It shows that 78 percent of Americans believe religion is increasing its influence, compared to just 37 percent eight months ago. It's the highest number in four decades. Sixty-one percent say religion is very important for them personally -- about the same percentage as before the attacks. The poll also shows a significant rise in public approval of Muslim Americans over the past few months.