Why Do Believers Have More Children?

Sociologist Peter Berger (an ELCA Lutheran), after surveying the overwhelming data that religious people have more children than the non-religious do, offers this explanation:

Religion has always given its adherents a sense of living in a meaningful universe. This protects individuals from what sociologists call anomie—a condition of disorder and meaninglessness. Religion, by the same token, gives a strong sense of identity and confidence in the future. More than anything else that human beings may do, the willingness of becoming a parent requires a good measure of confidence in the future. Mind you, this is not an argument for the truth of religion. Illusions may also bestow meaning and confidence. But my hypothesis offers an explanation for the ubiquity and persistence of religion.

via Why do Godders have so many kids? | Religion and Other Curiosities.

He’s probably right in what he says, but I’m not sure that’s the whole story. What else plays into it?

(And note the new word in his title: “Godders.” Should we embrace that word for those who believe in God or proclaim ourselves offended?)

HT: Joe Carter

"Speaking of Southern Baptists I found this very recent article by David French shocking. https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2026/05/i-dont-think-you-can-even-call-this-hypocrisy/"

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