Americans decreasingly call religion important to their lives and are divided over its role in society

A major new study on religious views in the United States finds – as Americans’ connection to organized religion continues to fade – there are deep divides over the appropriate role for religion in American public life, with sizable shares in favor of a more formalized role.

Less than half of all adults now say religion is very important in their lives, down from majorities who felt that way in earlier studies. Just 44% in the new poll say they pray daily, also down from majorities in prior polls. And while the vast majority continue to say they believe in a God or universal spirit, the share who say they are absolutely certain one exists has dropped from 71% in 2007 to 54% now...