American Religion: Contemporary Trends - Third Edition

A completely updated and expanded third edition of the most authoritative resource on religious trends in AmericaSince it was first published, American Religion has established itself as the essential source on key developments in American religion.Now fully revised, it provides the best and most up-to-date information about religious trends in the United States in a succinct and accessible way, including developments in diversity, belief, involvement, congregational life, leadership, polarization, and more.The book draws on the latest data from two key surveys: the General Social Survey, an ongoing survey of Americans’ changing attitudes and behaviors, begun in 1972; and the National Congregations Study, a survey of American religious congregations across the religious spectrum, begun in 1998.It also now incorporates findings from the National Survey of Religious Leaders, which surveyed clergy about their beliefs, attitudes, and religious and civic activities. With a new preface by Ma