Shifting Beliefs, Shifting Democracy

This week on Poll Hub, we explore how beliefs, values, and identity are shaped and reshaped across generations in American life. Drawing on new data from the Pew Research Center, the conversation looks at how many Americans were raised with strong religious identities and consistent practices, yet far fewer maintain those same levels of engagement in adulthood. We examine what drives this shift —from changes in family structure and upbringing to broader cultural influences —and consider how early experiences—whether religious or secular—continue to shape people’s sense of meaning, belonging, and identity over time. Marist Lecturer in Religious Studies Dr. Brian Loh joins us to help unpack these trends and what they reveal about generational change. We then turn to the evolving role of social media in American democracy, where new research highlights a striking tension. While heavy social media users are more likely to feel politically empowered and believe their participation can make a difference, they are also less likely to say democracy is the best form of government. Using findings from Gallup, the Kettering Foundation, and Pew Research, we explore how increased connectivity may be boosting engagement while simultaneously contributing to declining trust in institutions. Together, these conversations point to a broader story about change in how Americans engage with both personal belief systems and public institutions. As traditional structures evolve and new forms of connection take their place, the ways people understand their identities and their role in democracy are shifting in complex and sometimes contradictory ways. Listen here: maristpoll.com/podcast