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.