By:Makalae Quillot                               A New Generation

           

Today’s Canadian population has an astonishing 22,102,700 Christians. Although 2/3 of Canadians identify as Christian, has Western youth commitment to religion itself changed since the 1960’s?

The 60’s youth cultural environment tended to be largely influenced by religious beliefs, you know the drill church on Sundays followed by countless hour’s of thanking the lord. How did our society in early 60’s go from being so integrated with religion to so secular?

Society was inevitably changing; early generation of westernised Baby Boomers rebelled against authority. Their search for greater freedom was reflected by the social rights movements, and experience with psychedelics drugs. The American dream was redefined and the youth were connected by generational thinking. This strong bond allowed the youth to re-shape society in great power.

            The need to breakaway from traditional values re-defined what it meant to be a Christian. The countercultural youth no longer felt the need to strictly abide by the laws of their church. Notably Quebec’s Quiet Revolution reflected the rejection of the church’s omnipresence in society. The church some what dictated the way people lived, dressed and acted. The youth no longer sought to be influenced by the church and decided to seek detachment.

            No, Youth are not much more different than the 60’s, because our generation introspective towards religion are a result of the 60’s. The 60’s generation lead to a westernised society who is highly secular and no longer strictly follows Christianity. A predominant section of the western population may see religion as important, but are not as devoted. Some shocking statistics show “3/10 Christian, youth raised in the USA, do not believe in god”. Religion will always be a key role in society. However the 60’s for ever changed westerner’s view of religion.

Links: http://www.salon.com/2014/03/25/calling_the_christian_right_soon_you_will_be_outnumbered_partner/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Religion_in_Canada