According to some sociologists,  the free market system and separation of religion and state in the United States make people more religious.  Because religious institutions in America are not regulated by governments, they have to vigorously compete, to go out to the people to spread their message instead of passively waiting for congregants to flock to them. 

Like any other business they compete, offering attractive goods and services, in this case, spiritual answers. While not all sociologists agree and the theory doesn't cover every society it is  an intriguing theory and another example of how America is so different from other countries.

Ethel C. Fenig    11 24 04