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Placing Your Faith: The Religious Foundations of America's Urban–Rural Divide

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  • James R. G. Kirk
  • Levi G. Allen

Abstract

Objective What is the role of religion in America's growing geographic divide? Methods Using the data from the 2020 American National Election Study, we test the extent to which religion is associated with rural identity and rural resentment. Results We find positive empirical relationships between religion (particularly personal religious importance, religious beliefs, and identifying with mainline or evangelical Protestant Christianity) and a variety of variables that measure different facets of rural consciousness and place‐based identity. In addition, we show important conditional effects of how religion is related to rural resentment among both rural and non‐rural individuals. Conclusion These findings provide important context for both the urban–rural divide and the role of religion in American politics and suggest religion as an avenue for addressing place‐based divisions.

Suggested Citation

  • James R. G. Kirk & Levi G. Allen, 2026. "Placing Your Faith: The Religious Foundations of America's Urban–Rural Divide," Social Science Quarterly, Southwestern Social Science Association, vol. 107(3), May.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:socsci:v:107:y:2026:i:3:n:e70151
    DOI: 10.1111/ssqu.70151
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