Many may be familiar with the phrase “spiritual but not religious.” As of 2025, approximately 21% of Americans embrace this SBNR identity (Pew Research Center). The exact beliefs and practices of this population is murky. SBNRs are characterized by an emphasis on experience, and an aversion to rigid doctrine. As such, there is a wild range of beliefs and practices that any given SBNR might embrace.
Thus far, very little research has investigated the ritual lives (or lack thereof) of SBNRs in North America. In a project led by Wesley Wildman and Richard Sosis, we are investigating the role of ritual in the lives of SBNRs. The main project page can be found here.