New Generation Secular Lifestyles Survey

About the study

Following the “New Generation Conservatism” feature in the March 2025 issue, this study examines the lifestyles of secular individuals identifying as modern or partly modern, their attitudes towards religious symbols and religious education, their views on social issues, and their consumption and brand preferences. The findings suggest that secular people also seek a modern life without abandoning traditions, and that society may be closer to common ground than assumed.

Key findings

• 53.1% of participants described themselves as “modern” and 46.9% as “partly modern”.
• Secular respondents reported no objection to headscarves but were more distant towards full-body veiling; 41.6% were uncomfortable with the burqa. The presence of headscarf-wearing women in universities and public employment was supported, and 92% said “people have the right to believe”.
• 39.8% said having a same-sex couple as neighbours would not bother them; 33.6% disagreed and 19.9% were undecided.
• 35.4% supported mosque expenses being met by congregations, while 64.6% regarded this as the state’s responsibility. 19.9% favoured replacing religious education entirely with scientific education.
• In brand preferences, secular respondents favoured Eti and conservatives Ülker; secular respondents trusted global brands more. Zara was a favourite among secular respondents, while LC Waikiki (25.9%) was favoured by conservatives. Most combined online shopping with physical stores.

Methodology

Conducted online with 600 people in March 2025. The sample comprised people under 45 who said they voted for parties predominantly supported by secular voters and identified as partly or fully modern.

Ertan Aksoy’s assessment (summary)

According to Ertan Aksoy, younger conservatives seek to adapt to modern life, while those who prefer a modern lifestyle seek to retain traditions; both groups are moving towards the centre. He summarises this as “a time for social peace, not polarisation”.