Why is Neopaganism Rising in Popularity in the United Kingdom?
By Lilly. K. Drew
911664
University of Portsmouth
BA (Hons) Journalism
July 2022 Special Investigation submitted in part-fulfilment for the requirements of the BA (Hons) Journalism
Abstract
My Special Investigation is entitled: ‘Why is Neopaganism Rising in Popularity in the United Kingdom?’
As a practising eclectic Pagan of many years, I have observed a growing trend in the popularity of this minority religion. As such, I set out to fulfill the following aims and objectives:
1. Investigate why Paganism has become so popular and how advancements in science and 21st-century views have impacted this.
2. A personal account of what Paganism means to me, and the increased value of spirituality to myself and my university peers during a global pandemic.
3. A regional profile, examining Hampshire Pagan groups, including those newly established to meet the needs of a growing community, with an added look at how online platforms connect Pagans on a global scale.
Fulfilling these objectives, this project includes three features, which are all targeted for publication in the Guardian.
Feature one: ‘Professor Ronald Hutton: ‘Wicca is in many ways an individual spirituality of self-empowerment.’
For this one, I interviewed the UK’s leading Pagan historian, Professor Ronald Hutton. This Q&A outlines his insights into why modern socio-political and ecological values may have an impact on Paganism’s increasing popularity.
Feature two: ‘Proudly Pagan: How Joining a University Group Gave Me Meaning.’
This story encapsulates my experience as a practising eclectic Pagan. I delve deep into how I discovered and fell in love with this path. Furthermore, I examine the University of Portsmouth’s Pagan and Spiritual Society and how students have become more concerned about their health and wellbeing during Covid, seeking spirituality as a way to pursue personal growth.
Feature three: ‘Sisters in Arms: a Portsmouth Teacher Serves the Witchy Needs of Solent Pagans.’
Finally, this feature centres around Molly Davis, founder of the newly established Pagan group ‘Solent Sisterhood.’ I explore why she felt a new group was necessary, before branching out and examining other local groups and online alternatives.
Sisters in Arms: a Portsmouth Teacher Serves the Witchy Needs of Solent Pagans.
Molly Davis founded ‘Solent Sisterhood’ in Portsmouth to create an inclusive Pagan community. Approaching its first anniversary, the group offers informal gatherings, learning opportunities, and activities like ‘Tea and Tarot.’ With growing interest in Paganism, members emphasize community, acceptance, and the importance of intention in everyday practices.
Proudly Pagan: How Joining a University Group Gave Me Meaning
This content discusses Paganism, often misunderstood as associated with dark practices. It explores its essence as nature-focused, polytheistic religions, highlighting Wicca’s resurgence. The author shares their personal journey in Paganism, emphasizing community, adaptation during Covid, and the growing acceptance of these beliefs, particularly among young people seeking spiritual connection.
Professor Ronald Hutton: ‘Wicca is in many ways an individual spirituality of self-empowerment’
Professor Ronald Hutton, a leading historian on modern paganism, discusses the evolution of Wicca, its parallels with the 1960s social revolution, and the adaptability of its beliefs for contemporary youth. He argues that paganism’s resurgence is influenced by a search for spiritual fulfillment that rationalism fails to address, emphasizing personal empowerment and nature worship.