Source of graph: Pew Global Attitudes Project report summary cited below.
I ran across the graph above while looking for other information at the Pew site. The graph is consistent with my belief that science contributes to economic prosperity, and that science and religion are in conflict.
But of course many questions can be raised, such as: how did they measure religiosity?
Here is there answer to that question:
Religiosity is measured using a three-item index ranging from 0-3, with "3" representing the most religious position. Respondents were given a "1" if they believe faith in God is necessary for morality; a "1" if they say religion is very important in their lives; and a "1" if they pray at least once a day.
Source:
"World Publics Welcome Global Trade — But Not Immigration." Pew Global Attitudes Project, a project of the PewResearchCenter Released: 10.04.07 dowloaded from: http://pewglobal.org/reports/display.php?ReportID=258
Interesting data…
Notice that the US has a moderate “religiosity” rating, and yet the highest reported per capita GDP. Also note that Europe was at one time more “religious,” which is not accounted for in the graph. Africa has a very high “religiosity” rating and practically no per cap. GDP. These numbers can be made highly consistent by thinking of “religion” as just a “part of” a worldvew. Everyone has a worldview. A worldview is simply the way in which a person views the world. A worldview could be thought of as a foundation for one’s life. Science and religion are some of the main ingredients in the “cement.” If any any one of the ingredients is not input in the right way and the right amount in the cement making process, a weak foundation will be built. Each ingredient of the cement is critical and dependent on every other ingredient. The problem is not religion or science, the problem is that societies repeatedly build weak foundations, some not even lasting long enough to start the structure’s framing. The founders of America were highly and openly religious and yet they built a foundation unparalleled in strength; freedom and prosperity like never before seen in modern time resulted. If America’s foundation continues to be pounded on, it will one day crumble like the rest.