Broomsticks and Tarot Cards Are More Popular Than Crosses and Rosaries
The majority of millennials do not believe in any religion. This is the first generation in America that does not find religion to be a significant influence in their lives. But that does not necessarily mean millennials have abandoned faith. In fact, they may be creating a new form of worship.
Are Millennials Replacing Religion with Astrology and Spiritualism?[/tweetthis]
Over the last decade, astrology, spiritualism, crystals, and alternative beliefs have exploded in popularity among millennials. Over 80 percent of young Americans believe astrology is science. This has translated into a vast industry, with an increase from millions of dollars to a multi-billion dollar enterprise.
Why the interest in astrology? There is no direct causal explanation, but there is a range of factors. Millennials no longer feel religions are responsive to their unique position in society and history. Astrology is both diverse and personalized. There are a range of interpretations and no dogma, so practitioners can pick and choose what they want to follow. Additionally, astrology is designed to give direct messages into an individual’s future. This creates a need for followers to use the services once they start continuously. Some experts have linked tarot cards and astrology to a need for spiritual satisfaction or disillusionment with one’s life. Looking into the future seems like a way to erase future errors or make up for mistakes in the past. This is why divination has had popularity from the very onset in early society.
Even if millennials are replacing religion with astrology, they do not see astrology as a religion. It is seen more like a set of scientific principles or general philosophy. The vast amount of scientific evidence that has debunked all forms of astrology, tarot, and other gimmicks designed to discern the future makes the prospect of young generations using it at a rapidly expanding rate disheartening.