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New research shows God-believing ‘nones’ align more closely with religious Americans

A new study by University of Nebraska-Lincoln sociologist Philip Schwadel found that God-believing religious nones are more likely to hold conservative views than other nones. They tend to support school prayer, the death penalty, and anti-abortion laws, while opposing increased spending on welfare and education.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalSociology of Religion·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 11, 2026

Spirituality linked with better health outcomes, patient care

A study by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and Brigham and Women's Hospital found that incorporating spirituality into care can lead to healthier lives, including greater longevity and quality of life. The researchers recommend increasing awareness among clinicians about the protective benefits of spiritual community particip...

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalJAMA·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 12, 2022

Economists find mixed values of 'thoughts and prayers'

A study by University of Wyoming economists found that Christian hurricane victims value prayers from religious strangers, while atheists and agnostics believe they are worse off. The research suggests that thoughts and prayers should be employed selectively to maximize their impact on recipient welfare.

SourceUniversity of Wyoming·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 16, 2019

Study: We trust in those who believe in God

A new study by University of Houston researchers found that including religion in campaign speeches can increase a candidate's perceived trustworthiness and favorability. The study revealed that atheists face significant challenges in winning public office due to societal biases against non-believers.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalAmerican Politics Research·DateJan 5, 2016

Some atheist scientists with children embrace religious traditions, according to new Rice research

According to the study, 17 percent of atheists with children attended a religious service more than once in the past year. Atheist scientists cite scientific identity, spousal influence, and desire for community as reasons for their involvement. They want their children to have choices and expose them to various religious traditions.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal for the Scientific Study of Religion·DateDec 1, 2011

UBC study explores distrust of atheists by believers

A UBC study explores the social psychological processes underlying anti-atheist sentiments, finding that religious believer's distrust is central to prejudice against atheists. The research suggests that outward displays of belief may be viewed as a proxy for trustworthiness, leading to disapproval and mistrust of atheists.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateNov 30, 2011

More than 20 percent of atheist scientists are spiritual

A new study from Rice University found that 72 scientists, many of whom identify as atheist, possess a spirituality consistent with science. These 'spiritual atheist' scientists believe in a core sense of truth generated by their work as scientists, and see both science and spirituality as meaning-making without faith.

SourceRice University·JournalSociology of Religion·DateMay 5, 2011