In America, around half of all volunteer-based groups have a religious affiliation. Additionally, between 35 to 40 percent of the population goes to church regularly. However, over the past 50 years, the percentage of people who vote and volunteer has declined by 10 to 20 percent. This decline has also been observed in the "third places" that were once known for community support and socialization.

In his book "Bowling Alone," Robert Putnam highlights how dwindling participation in community organizations has eroded our ability to run meetings, manage disagreements, bear responsibility, entertain strangers at home, or participate in sports and games.

As a result of maintaining organized groups, the church has become a primary training ground for civic engagement and leadership, as well as diplomacy. These are fundamental hallmarks that are required for a successful democracy. Religion plays a crucial role in preventing isolationism and atomized individualism, thus retaining social fabric and support.

In a fraying democracy, the rise of unified voices, and therefore democratic majority, is likely to arise from religions that maintain, train, and unify.

[tags  democarcy, religion, voting, third place, socialization, politics,]