Economic analysis of religion

Abstract

Religiosity plays a very important role both in economic outcomes and in the lives of many people. The economics of religion is a relatively new topic in economics but a fast growing area of academic interest indeed. In Greece, a country of rather much religiosity, the topic is almost completely unknown. This essay introduces the topic of the economics of religion to Greek academic audience. In this context, a review of the relevant literature along with statistical data from the American experience, are initially presented. The paper also reviews the economics of religion literature both from the demand and supply side. It finally focuses on Greece and its comparison with EU member-states’ religiosity in particular.

JEL Classification: Z120