Social Status and Religiosity in Hungary

Since Weber, sociology has aimed to explore the relationship between social status and religiosity. However, in the 21st century's value-diverse societies, this relationship requires reexamination. This study investigates the elective affinities between social groups and dimensions of contemporary Christian religiosity in Hungary. A national survey was conducted with 1000 Hungarians to collect data on various dimensions of religiosity. The survey measured church attendance, participation in rites, religious beliefs, identity, and values. Hierarchical cluster analysis and correspondence analysis were then used to statistically relate the social status indicators to this extensive set of religiosity measures. The analyses showed significant associations between social status and distinct clusters of religiosity. For example, the upper classes exhibited an affinity for more external, low-commitment forms of religiosity, such as partaking in major holidays and occasional church attendance. In contrast, higher-status skilled workers showed greater devotion to internal Christian values. In conclusion, this study shows that there are significant relationships between social stratification and different expressions of Christian religiosity and culture in contemporary Hungary. These findings can provide better insight into the complex interplay between societal position and multidimensional religiosity in 21st-century societies.