Chapter 11History & Culture

What are the world's biggest religions?

Christianity (2.4B), Islam (1.9B), Hinduism (1.2B), Buddhism (500M). Combined that's about 75% of humanity. Unaffiliated ('nones') is the fastest-growing group in the West.

Follow-up questions

What's the difference between Catholic and Protestant?

Both Christian. Catholics recognize the Pope's authority; Protestants split off in the 1500s over practices like selling indulgences.

Sunni vs Shia Islam?

Split after the Prophet's death over succession. Sunni ~85%, Shia ~15%, concentrated in Iran and Iraq.

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