Survey reveals highest ever proportion of non-religious Scots

July 4, 2017

Figures from the annual Scottish Social Attitudes Survey, run by ScotCen social researchers, have shown the highest ever proportion of non-religious people.

The new findings from Scotland’s most authoritative survey of public attitudes show that nearly six in ten (58%) now say that they have no religion, up 18 points on 1999 when the figure stood at four in ten (40%).

Young people are least likely to be religious; three quarters of young people (74% of 18-34s) say they have no religion compared with 34% of those over 65.

Commenting on the new figures, Gordon MacRae, Chief Executive of Humanist Society Scotland said:

“This change is part of a long term trend that has seen more and more people in Scotland live happy and fulfilled lives without a religious belief.

“Humanist weddings for example are now more numerous in Scotland than any religious service.

“Today’s figures help support Humanist Society Scotland’s long held view that we should end privileges that some faith groups unfairly enjoy. A modern Scotland should ensure individuals of all faiths and none are equally respected.”