I have thoughts on why religion is declining, and I don't believe it's because it's culturally discouraged. Young people want community, but they do not want to be told what to do by a hierarchy and spiritual leaders simply because "they say so" and related historical texts. The power and control through belief systems and hierarchy inherent to religion are breaking down. Is it because of social media [think increased velocity of cultural Overton Window and societal norm transition]? Younger people are more empowered and can support themselves while avoiding these institutions? Brain structure changing as it relates to social needs, fear, and tribalism? Hard to say yet, but I am excited to understand over time as a scholar.

For comparison, Japan legislated that religious indoctrination and withholding education or healthcare from your children due to religious beliefs should be classified as child abuse.

https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=48634883 (citations)

What it's like to close a Church with Ryan Burge - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ni8DiT3Cb5g - July 26th, 2024

Forced participation in religious activities to be classified as child abuse - https://japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/politics/politics-government... - December 27th, 2022

Government guidelines define child abuse from religious parents - https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/14802375 - December 22nd, 2022