By North State Free Coast Syndicate
A new global survey from Pew Research Center finds that belief in spirits, life after death, and spiritual forces remains deeply rooted across the world—even among younger generations.
The study, released in May 2025, surveyed over 50,000 people in 36 countries and found that majorities in nearly every region continue to hold spiritual beliefs, including belief in a life after death and the idea that spirits or spiritual energies can reside in animals or parts of nature. In most countries, belief in God remains high, with a global median of 83% saying they believe in a higher power.
Perhaps most striking is the generational data. While older adults remain more likely to report strong religious affiliation and attendance at formal services, younger adults (ages 18–34) are just as likely—and sometimes more likely—to believe in spiritual forces. This includes belief in spirits in nature, reincarnation, and ancestral influence.
In many countries, including the United States, a strong majority believes that “there is something spiritual beyond the natural world, even if we cannot see it.” This belief cuts across religious identities and shows up even in countries with large religiously unaffiliated populations.
The findings challenge assumptions that spirituality is fading in modern society. Even in highly developed countries with lower rates of traditional religious practice, many people still report personal spiritual beliefs and practices—including lighting candles, praying, or wearing religious symbols.
The U.S. reflects this broader pattern. While religious attendance has declined in recent years, 70% of Americans still believe in life after death, and over half believe that animals or natural places can possess spiritual energy.
Across the globe, spiritual beliefs are expressed in many ways—from formal religion to personal rituals—but the survey reveals a consistent thread: a large share of the world still holds on to the idea that there’s more to life than what we see.
