After viewing several sources, I have made the best estimate possible concerning worldwide religious affiliation. As you might imagine, some have better methods of counting than others-and there are studies dealing with what people believe that are not actively a part of any religion to make things even more confusing.
Christianity is the largest religion in the world and accounts for approximately 33.0% percent of the world's population. This includes all Protestant and Catholic groups and the largest amongst those are Roman Catholic and Baptist. This number also includes some groups that some people would argue whether they should be counted amongst Christians. These would include Jehovah's Witnesses and The Church of Latter Day Saints.
Islam is the second largest religion in the world and accounts for about 21% of the world's population. The number is probably actually higher-as Islam is one of the fastest growing religions in the world. Some estimates go as high as 24%.
This group makes up about 16% of the world's population. This is probably the most difficult group to measure because those that believe something might have been limited by choices.
How about 14% for the fourth largest religion in the world? This one is predominant in India and Nepal with over 80% of the populations there. By comparison, about 1.3 of North Americans are followers of Hinduism.
Followers of Buddhism make up about 6% of the world's population. This number is similar to those practicing Chinese Traditional and African Tribal religions-which each also come in at about 6%.
Yes...the numbers add up to a little over 100%. Attribute that to rounding
Great research indeed, for interested readers thaat read this topic. H5
It is a big world out there with many different beliefs. Great educational piece.
Thank you for your research to bring this list to light.
select one here...