"The fact that most Americans are not exclusive or dogmatic about their religion is a fascinating finding," said Luis Lugo, director of the Pew Forum. "Most people will be surprised that a majority of adherents in nearly all religious traditions, including a majority of evangelical Protestants, say that there isn’t just one way to salvation or to interpret the teachings of their own faith."

Hindus had the highest percentage (89 percent) of members saying that other religions could also lead to eternal life. Jehovah’s Witnesses had the lowest – 16 percent. Amongst Muslims, 56 percent stated that many religions can lead to eternal life.

Notable in the report was willingness on the part of many members of faith groups known to be strictly grounded in their religious beliefs to accept other faiths.

But the study also showed that members often disagreed about core beliefs of their faiths. Only six-in-ten Buddhists believe in nirvana – the ultimate state transcending pain and desire, and a similar number of Hindus say they believe in reincarnation, although these concepts are central beliefs of the two faith systems. Only 67 percent of Muslims were certain of life after death.

The study also explored political views of different faith groups. The poll showed that in general, members of a faith group who attend prayer services more frequently were more likely to be Republican and hold conservative views.

The report also found a stronger link between some political issues and religious affiliation; views on abortion and gay rights, for example, mirrored teachings of the religions of the respondents. But in areas such as the economy, environment, or foreign affairs, the religious identification was not as important.

 On the Web:
http://religions.pewforum.org/