Sochi Olympics shine spotlight on Russia’s Muslim population
Security has been among the main storylines leading up to the Winter Olympics, set to begin in Sochi, Russia. Sochi is not far from the city of Volgograd, the target of several recent suicide bombings, and according to The Associated Press, up to 100,000 security personnel have been deployed to guard against potential terrorist acts. […]
Obama advocates for global religious freedom at a time of high restrictions
About two-thirds of the world’s population lives in countries with high or very high government restrictions on religion.
Coke, “America the Beautiful,” and the language of diversity
Coca-Cola’s “It’s Beautiful” ad, that aired during Sunday night’s Super Bowl, sought to portray ethnic diversity in the U.S. by featuring “America the Beautiful” sung in several languages. But not everyone was happy with Coke’s celebration of diversity in the country.
Bill Nye vs. Ken Ham: Are evolution and religion at odds?
Religion and evolution will take center stage Tuesday evening in Petersburg, Ky., home of the Creation Museum and the site of a debate between Ken Ham, the museum’s founder, and Bill Nye. The topic: “Is creation a viable model of origins in today’s modern scientific era?”
Pope Francis moves beyond Europe with first class of cardinals
Pope Francis named his first group of new cardinals, often called “princes of the church,” last week. The 19 men will be formally appointed next month. Media reports have observed that Francis, the first pope from outside Europe in modern times, chose several cardinals from the developing world. Francis’ immediate predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI, selected […]
Key findings about growing religious hostilities around the world
Highlights from the fifth annual Pew Research Center study of religious hostilities around the world.
5 facts about Americans’ views on life-and-death issues
From the morality of suicide to personal preferences for end-of-life care.
Republicans’ views on evolution
Significantly fewer Republicans believe in evolution than did so four years ago, setting them apart from Democrats and independents. But behind this finding is a puzzle: If the views of the overall public have remained steady, and there has been little change among people of other political affiliations, how do you account for the Republican numbers? An explainer.
Six questions about the contraception mandate and the Supreme Court
2014 promises to be a crucial year in determining the fate of the Affordable Care Act’s contraception mandate, which requires most employers who offer health insurance to their workers to provide free contraceptive services for female employees.
Most Americans believe in Jesus’ virgin birth
Most U.S. adults believe Jesus was born of a virgin, including one-third of Americans with no specific religious affiliation.
