Census 2021: Your Guide to the Metaphysical Betting Options

Make Money From Betting on Religious Beliefs Using the 2021 UK Population Census – A Guide


This book offers a unique exploration of the intersection between religion, gambling, and census data through the lens of the now-defunct Betfair Metaphysical betting exchange. Designed for novelty and metaphysical fun, the exchange allowed participants to place bets on the religious affiliations revealed in the 2021 UK Census. The guidebook provides detailed strategies on how to make money by betting on religious demographics and offers insight into the broader concept of metaphysical betting.

The book introduces Betfair Metaphysical as an innovative platform that allowed users to “put their money where their credulity lies” by betting on religion. Drawing inspiration from Pascal’s Wager, participants could hedge their spiritual and financial bets simultaneously, seeking both material gain and metaphysical satisfaction. The exchange was the brainchild of the creators of other playful metaphysical ventures, including Prophette and Shaman Metaphysical Bookmakers and the Metaphysical Lottery.

At the heart of the betting concept was the 2021 Census for England and Wales, which asked households to declare their religious affiliation. The idea was simple: guess the outcome of the census results accurately, and win. This guide details 15 ready-made bets that participants could follow, while also encouraging users to create their own.

In addition to outlining bets, the book presents a playful yet insightful exploration of comparative religion. It humorously reflects on religious beliefs and practices, showing how they became the basis for a novel form of gambling. The exchange’s motto—“No longer spiritually rich and materially poor”—underscored the premise that participants could use religious affiliation not just as a spiritual identifier but as a way to potentially turn a profit.

The book also details the entertaining features of the platform, including Metaphysical Roulette and Metaphysical Poker, two custom games that added fun to the serious business of betting. Though the exchange is no longer active, this guide serves as a legacy of the project, providing an entertaining and thought-provoking look at the curious overlap between faith, data, and betting.