Freethinkers Forum

Unitarian Universalist Church of Sarasota’s Free Thinkers will feature Ryan T. Cragun, Associate Professor of Sociology at the University of Tampa who will discuss what is a religion. Studying religion as a social phenomenon, Cragun follows scientific data to provide answers to questions such as why are people religious. Are religious people more educated than nonreligious people? Are religious people more moral, more humble or happier? Are religious people more or less prejudiced than non-religious people? Is religion good for your health?  Are people becoming more or less religious?

At times irreverent, but always engaging and illuminating, his recent book, “What You Don’t Know about Religion (but should),” is for all those who have ever wondered whether religion helps or hurts society – or questioned what the future holds for religion.  Cragun is a husband, father, and sociologist of religion.  Originally from Utah, he now lives in Florida and works at the University of Tampa.  His research and writing focuses on religion, with an emphasis on Mormonism and the nonreligious.

His research has been published in a variety of academic journals, including: Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion, Sociology of Religion, Nova Religion, Journal of Religion and Health, and Journal of Contemporary Religion. When he's not working, he's spending time with his wife and son, watching science fiction, hiking, playing soccer, or tinkering with computers.  His presentation is followed by a Question and Answer session for participants. All Freethinkers meetings are free and open to the public.

The Unitarian Universalist Church of Sarasota is a welcoming congregation serving Sarasota and Manatee counties.  More information can be found at: www.uusarasota.org and information can be obtained by emailing engage@uusarasota.org.

Image files attached.

For more information or contact kroden356@gmail.com

####