Why Pakistanis are religious, and not religious at the same time.

Have you ever noticed that Pakistanis hold some of the most contradictory religious opinions? According to studies, ~80% of respondents are in favor of enforcing Sharia. As part of tradition and faith, many women cover themselves. Public discourse is dominated by religion. But drugs, alcohol, corn, as well as Western lifestyles, are all on the rise. The majority of Pakistan's drug consumers are youth. Many people continue to demand a Sharia-compliant state despite the fact that they are openly violating Islamic principles by partying, smoking, and drinking.

Pakistan is not the only country that has this dilemma. A study showed that less than half of Iranians today identify as Muslims(even though official estimate say that ~90% are Muslims) despite decades of religious control; or because of it. The youth of Saudi Arabia are also turning away from religion. Because they see it as a means of control. They are opening up to the idea that religion has been continuously used as a weapon to suppress them. They are able to understand this now, because Kingdom isn't going to be able to bribe them for long, in exchange for liberties.

Modern societies are based on rationality, not religious law. Human rights, free speech, and moral principles are not fundamentally religious. The abolition of slavery, women's rights, and personal liberties were not religious notions; they were secular advances. Conservative religious beliefs hasn't evolved, therefore it feels confining rather than relevant. We've also change the concept of God, using faith as a political instrument rather than a personal belief.

When religion is used for control, people begin to question it. Faith becomes something to be rejected rather than accepted.....

That is why the contradiction exists. People support Sharia but do not want to live under one. They advocate for an Islamic state while enjoying the liberties that would not exist in one.