Increased social and political equality in Europe has led to a decline in the popularity of religion

The number of Europeans identifying as part of an organised religion has fallen significantly since the beginning of the 20th century. Mick Power assesses the reasons behind the decline in religious practice and belief in Europe, arguing that a number of specific factors, such as greater social equality in comparison to countries like the United States, have played a role. The Catholic Church has also been particularly affected by the use of a patriarchal system of control and the recent sex abuse scandals which have damaged its reputation.