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New Pew study looks at views on theodicy, afterlife

In September, the Pew Research Center dug into the views adults in the United States hold on theodicy (why do bad things happen to good people?), as well as their views on the reality of heaven and hell and how one gets to either destination.

While most of the questions produced clear majority views within the American populace, detailed analysis reveals deep differences.

For example, 33 percent of American adults—including 30 percent of those who identify as Christian—believe in reincarnation. No major branch of Christianity teaches reincarnation.