Social Media Seen as Mostly Good for Democracy Across Many Nations, But U.S. is a Major Outlier
Most think social media has made it easier to manipulate and divide people, but they also say it informs and raises awareness.
Most think social media has made it easier to manipulate and divide people, but they also say it informs and raises awareness.
More Americans say their country’s influence in the world has been getting weaker rather than stronger in recent years (47% vs. 19%).
Most think social media has made it easier to manipulate and divide people, but they also say it informs and raises awareness.
People in advanced and emerging economies have mixed feelings about social media’s impact on political life.
Our study analyzes 198 countries and territories and is based on policies and events in 2020, the most recent year for which data is available.
Nearly a quarter of countries used force to prevent religious gatherings during the pandemic; other government restrictions and social hostilities related to religion remained fairly stable.
Perceptions of strong partisan conflict are most widespread among adults in South Korea, the United States, Israel, France and Hungary.
Most in advanced economies say voting, taking steps to reduce climate change and getting a COVID-19 vaccine are ways to be a good member of society; fewer say this about attending religious services.
When comparing turnout among the voting-age population in recent national elections in 50 countries, the U.S. ranks 31st.
Only three-in-ten Americans say it is a very serious problem for the United States if Xi Jinping assumes a third term as China’s leader.
At least eight-in-ten adults in Poland and six-in-ten in Hungary say the EU promotes peace, democratic values and prosperity.
Large majorities in most of the 19 countries surveyed have negative views of China, but relatively few say bilateral relations are bad.
Most say U.S. is reliable partner, and ratings for Biden are mostly positive – although down significantly from last year.
Family is preeminent for most publics but work, material well-being and health also play a key role.
Dissatisfaction with the functioning of democracy is linked to concerns about the economy, the pandemic and social divisions.