Uncertainty & Religion

This study aims to test the relationships between personal uncertainty, religiosity/spirituality, and prejudice towards immigrants. On the basis of the previously reviewed uncertainty management models and empirical studies pertaining to these models (Van den Bos, 2001; Van den Bos & Lind, 2002; Van den Bos, Poortvliet et al., 2005), we hypothesize that uncertain people may be likely to be prejudiced towards immigrants. This is presumed to occur because the phenomenon of immigration may be perceived as a threat and thus does not help people to cope with their uncertainty. In addition, we hypothesize that religiosity/spirituality may be negatively associated with personal uncertainty, and may reduce the effect of personal uncertainty on prejudice towards immigrants. Religiosity could reassure people, for example, that the world is somehow an orderly, predictable place when they are feeling uncertain.