SOCIOLOGICAL MEASUREMENTS OF RELIGIOSITY AND THEIR INTERPRETATION IN THE MEDIA SPACE: A METHODOLOGICAL ANALYSIS

Abstract

In the contemporary sociology of religion, the issue of measuring religiosity has become increasingly relevant due to the growing use of international comparative studies, indices, and statistical indicators. However, the interpretation of such data in the media space is often accompanied by the oversimplification of complex sociological categories and the reduction of religiosity to individual indicators of religious practice, which may lead to distorted perceptions of religious reality.

The purpose of this study is to analyze the theoretical and methodological foundations of measuring religiosity and to identify the specific features of interpreting relevant data in the contemporary media environment. Particular attention is paid to the scholarly views of Abulfaz Suleymanli regarding the interpretation of statistical data on religiosity. The study also focuses on distinguishing between religious practice, religious identity, and cultural religiosity.

The methodological framework of the research is based on theoretical analysis of scholarly literature, as well as comparative and critical-analytical approaches. The theoretical basis is formed by contemporary concepts in the sociology of religion, particularly Grace Davie’s theory of “believing without belonging.”

The findings demonstrate that religiosity is a multidimensional social phenomenon that cannot be adequately measured solely through indicators of institutional participation in religious life. The study reveals that a low level of attendance at religious institutions does not necessarily indicate the irreligiosity of a society, since religious identity and cultural forms of religiosity may persist beyond formal religious practice. The research substantiates the need to consider cultural, historical, and social contexts when interpreting empirical data. The scientific and practical significance of the study lies in advancing methodological approaches to the study of religiosity and improving the use and interpretation of sociological data in both academic and public discourse.