I definitely don't think that's the rule. I've seen complete fuckups turn to Jesus and turn their lives completely around. For the sake of arguement let's assume Jesus is just a figment; does this really matter if one is to use this figment to better their lives? If this is the one thing some people have to grasp onto, then more power to them.
In terms of being an independant, free thinker; yes, it's definitely falling off.