Like many western nations, religiosity in Australia has decreased substantially in recent decades, particularly among the major Christian denominations. The trend appears set to continue. At the same time, the nation’s Pentecostal prime minister, Mr Scott Morrison, has made no secret of the extent of his religious convictions, Australia’s most religious have attempted to take charge of political party branches, and the federal Coalition government seems intent on entrenching in law privileged rights for the religious to discriminate.

But what is 'religion'? It can be very difficult to separate out from culture and politics. Particular personality types, such as those who favour authoritarianism or a social dominance orientation, may seem to be represented both in politics (much more, though not exclusively, on the right), and in religion. While these and other attributes might seem essential features of religion to some, research from around the world paints a much more complex picture. Characteristics associated with religion in one culture — especially in western monotheisms — can be negatively associated in others — especially in the east.