I am a born in JW for over 30 years now and have been in various positions in the organization. Now I'm guessing most of us recognize that older generations tend to be more fundamental and less reasonable when it comes to their outlook and beliefs. I find this to mirror the differences you see outside of the organization as well (older people less tolerant of other religions, newer technology, LGBT, etc.). Likewise, I find that younger ones in the organization, say 40 and under, also seem to be more rational and reasonable. I've known a lot of "true believers" in my time but I find I rarely meet any around my age. From what I've seen as well many have a more tolerant attitude towards alcohol as well as entertainment. Although no one really advertises this. Heck, one brother told me the research he was doing with his mom on medical marijuana and from what they could tell as long as you don't smoke it it's considered a conscience matter. Anyways, all this to say, has anyone else noticed this? I feel like people in religion in general are becoming increasingly less fundamental and more secular and reasonable, even in other religions. Of course, on the opposite side you have the extremist factions in Christianity, Islam, Judaism, etc. But it seems like the 80/20 rule where most are becoming more relaxed as opposed to more fundamental.
FWIW: I'm currently in a congregation in a city that has over a million people so perhaps it's the classic difference between more rural and isolated communities vs more generally more tolerant and progressive cities. I've been to some small more isolated congregations that are pretty insane.