The decline of religious belief from "summary" of From Dawn to Decadence by Jacques Barzun
The decline of religious belief has been a notable trend in Western societies since the Enlightenment. As reason and science gained prominence, traditional religious teachings came under scrutiny and many people began to question their faith. The authority of the Church was challenged by new ideas and beliefs, leading to a gradual erosion of religious influence in public life. One of the key factors contributing to the decline of religious belief was the rise of secularism. As society became more focused on the material world and individual freedoms, religious institutions lost their hold on people's hearts and minds. The separation of church and state further marginalized religion, relegating it to the realm of personal belief rather than a guiding force in public policy. Technological advancements also played a role in diminishing the influence of religion. As scientific discoveries expanded our understanding of the natural world, traditional religious explanations for phenomena see...
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