Religion in European Societies: Exploring the Role of Economy, Governance, and Constitutions in Changing Religious Landscapes

Abstract

This HSR Supplement explores the dynamic relationship between economic growth, welfare systems, and religious behavior and affiliation across various European countries, offering a comprehensive examination of these intertwined factors. By analyzing trends over several decades, the study investigates how macroeconomic variables - such as GDP, welfare spending, and income inequality - shape individual religiosity and religious affiliation. Its primary objective is to assess how economic conditions and welfare investments influence shifts in personal and societal religious practices and affiliations. Building upon and critiquing existing theories, the study proposes a nuanced perspective on the evolving roles of modern welfare systems, examining whether these systems act as substitutes for or complements to traditional religious institutions. It delves into the complex interplay between human security and religious adherence, providing new insights into the changing relevance of religion in contemporary Europe. Additionally, it introduces a novel focus on the impact of political trust and constitutional mandates in shaping patterns of religious affiliation and behavior. Drawing from diverse datasets and employing robust methodologies, including time-series and multilevel analyses, this research bridges macro-level economic conditions with micro-level religious outcomes. By integrating economic, political, and cultural dimensions, it offers a holistic view of how large-scale transformations influence individual and collective religious expressions. This HSR Supplement makes a significant contribution to the sociology of religion by illuminating the intricate ways in which economic and political developments reshape Europe's religious landscape. It also opens new pathways for future research into the evolving role of religion in modern societies.

Das HSR-Supplement untersucht die dynamische Beziehung zwischen Wirtschaftswachstum, Wohlfahrtssystemen und religiösem Verhalten und Zugehörigkeit in verschiedenen europäischen Ländern und bietet eine umfassende Untersuchung dieser miteinander verflochtenen Faktoren. Durch die Analyse von Trends über mehrere Jahrzehnte hinweg untersucht die Studie, wie makroökonomische Variablen - wie BIP, Sozialausgaben und Einkommensungleichheit - die individuelle Religiosität und Religionszugehörigkeit beeinflussen. Ihr Hauptziel ist es, zu bewerten, wie wirtschaftliche Bedingungen und Wohlfahrtsinvestitionen Veränderungen in persönlichen und gesellschaftlichen religiösen Praktiken und Zugehörigkeiten beeinflussen.