Affinity and tension between religious denominations: Evidence from private school enrolment

A religious group will typically regard other religious groups differentially, viewing some in a positive light, as close substitutes, and others in a negative light. We define and estimate a model of intergenerational cultural transmission through education that allows for such differentiation. Regressing private school enrolment shares, classified by religious affiliation, on the local distribution of adherents among denominations across counties, we find significant differences among pairs of denominations, which are generally in line with previous observations. Recognizing these differences allows a more nuanced understanding of demand for religious education and of the intergenerational transmission of religious identity.

► We define a model of the formation of religious identity through education. ► We then regress private school enrolment on the local distribution of adherents. ► The patterns of affinity and tension we find conform to previous findings. ► We find mutual tension between Catholics and evangelical Protestant groups. ► Higher tension is associated with evangelical than with mainline Protestants.