ABSTRACT
This chapter argues that the churches and the forces of religion would have dominated an analysis of modern society. Thus the churches and religion are stronger today than for many a century, since they command the allegiance of an independent minority predestined for leadership. Yet the popular impression that religion and the churches are today more impotent than ever before is also only too obviously correct. There have indeed been some slight developments which could be interpreted as showing a trend toward a Christian basis. The conspicuous and remarkable failure of the churches to provide the basis for a new society is obviously not due to the "godless spirit" of the age which is so often deplored from the pulpits. Personal religious experience may be invaluable to the individual; it may restore his peace, may give him a personal God and a rational understanding of his own function and nature.
