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As we enter the twenty-first century, the opinion that people don't need religion has become so popular it resembles a slogan. I, however, am far from accepting the idea of a non-religious society in the future. Surely, empty church halls can be said to be a sign of our times, but if we assume that the word religion applies to  all human activity that is spiritually-oriented, we will see that religion is as widespread  as ever. 
The key to this assumption is the phenomenon of consumptionism, viewed by many sociologists and religious researchers as the beginning of a new religion, one which turns its followers'  spiritual aspirations to the mundane, while still maintaining its social significance.  
An example of this new religious practice is Sunday shopping, where entire households, unanimous as the church-going families of old, go down to the local mall and indulge in consumptionist ecstasy . The promise of this new religion isnt eternal life or transcendence. Its doctrine is the simple fulfilment of our immediate needs and base fantasies. Exceeding all other religions in accessibility and universalism, consumptionism is on the rise among all social classes, but, paradoxically, the poor seem all the more susceptible to its lure. 
As for the social significance of consumptionism, we can witness it in all its glory during the holiday season. Shopping for presents and huge family feasts seem to be the essence of todays holidays. It is no coincidence that early Pagan astrological celebrations share dates wit modern European holidays. Perhaps future generations, having forgotten the original meaning of their festivities, will still experience a certain exaltation  while giving into sacred consumption on Christmas Eve 2050.
 
 
 
 


