Is the importance of religion declining in Australian society today, is it undergoing a resurgence, or is its significance merely changing? Evaluate the arguments for and against the “secularisation thesis” and come to a conclusion. Refer to sociological evidence, concepts and theories to help explain why the changes you identify are occurring.

The purpose of this assignment is to test your understanding of the material presented in lectures, tutorials and tutorial readings in the course. This essay is worth 40 per cent of your assessment and is due on Sunday, Week 11 by Midnight. It is an expectation that students will consult and utilise at least eight scholarly sources in writing this particular assignment, which should be evident in the in-text referencing and reference list. In addressing any of the set questions, be sure to include a combination of appropriate theory, research data and critical insight in making your argument.

Write a 1500-word essay on one of the following topics:

1. Is the importance of religion declining in Australian society today, is it undergoing a resurgence, or is its significance merely changing? Evaluate the arguments for and against the “secularisation thesis” and come to a conclusion. Refer to sociological evidence, concepts and theories to help explain why the changes you identify are occurring.