Faith
British Survey Explores Faith and Thankfulness
Faith Facts
- A study found most Britons do not believe faith in God is necessary to feel thankful for existence.
- The research revealed religious belief increased people’s likelihood of expressing gratitude for life.
- Thankfulness was common among both religious and non-religious, but expressed toward different sources.
Researchers from King’s College London surveyed over 2,000 British adults about the relationship between belief in God and feelings of thankfulness for life. The findings suggest that many feel a sense of existential gratitude, regardless of their faith background.
One in five people reported feeling deeply thankful to be alive on a regular basis, while religious individuals were more likely to acknowledge thankfulness for their own lives and life in general. However, both groups expressed similar levels of gratitude toward other people in their lives.
“If there is no God or creator, to whom is one thankful?” questioned Dr. King-Ho Leung. “Does one need to believe in God to feel thankful for existence?”
The survey indicated that 59% do not see belief in God as essential for gratitude, while 22% believe it is necessary. Among those surveyed, thankfulness was directed primarily to nature, other people, themselves, or to God, highlighting where individuals seek meaning and purpose.
The Christmas season made little difference for most regarding feelings of thankfulness, and the research noted divisions among people of faith on whether religious belonging is necessary for gratitude. The study also noted young people reported more feelings of awe and thankfulness than older generations.
“This study shows that thankfulness for life or what we may call ‘existential gratitude’ is a widespread human disposition and experience shared by the religious and non-religious alike,” said Dr. Leung.
Christian values remind us that giving thanks in all circumstances is a biblical principle, rooted in recognizing every good gift comes from above. As this study shows, the longing for gratitude is written on every heart, pointing to the Creator who calls us to a life of thankfulness and meaning.