Surge in Afghanistan Coverage
The war in Afghanistan, as was the case with coverage of Iraq, is a bigger story when it is more a domestic political story than one about combat. Also, morning shows propel Woods and the Salahis to the top of the news agenda, but well below the war.
Religion, Race – and Obama
A religious scholar discusses the president-elect’s place in the nation’s historical tension between religion and politics and examines the role of black churches as well as the controversy surrounding the Rev. Jeremiah Wright.
Media Coverage of Hispanics
A six-month media analysis finds little coverage of the Latino community outside of major events, with the nomination of Sonia Sotomayor by far the the biggest storyline. Immigration was featured in fewer than one-in-ten stories about Hispanics.
U.S. Seen as Less Important, China as More Powerful
A new survey of both the public and members of the Council on Foreign Relations finds an increasingly isolationist sentiment among Americans. The public also differs with CFR members on increasing troop levels in Afghanistan, the threat posed by China and the use of torture.
Negative Views of U.S. Unchanged in Turkey
Though U.S. image remains dismal in Turkey (the lowest rating among 25 nations surveyed) there are signs of improvement in this strategically important country. Far more Turks trust the new American president and the nation is turning less negative toward U.S. foreign policy.
Blogs Find Fox News Story on SEALs
A report about the court martial of three Navy SEALs, little covered in the mainstream press, dominated conversation online.
Sikh-Americans and Religious Liberty
With their religious beliefs requiring distinctive elements of dress and appearance — wearing a turban, keeping hair and beards uncut, carrying a kirpan — Sikhs have been a part of many legal disputes. In an interview, church-state scholar Robert W. Tuttle discusses religious liberty and accommodation issues involving Sikh-Americans.
Global Warming Seen as a Major Problem Around the World
As leaders convene in Copenhagen to discuss climate change, they will address a concern shared around the globe. Publics are willing to sacrifice economic growth for the environment, but nations are split on which country should lead on global warming.
GOP Seen as Friendlier to Religion than Democrats
The Democrats’ image with respect to religion fell sharply among groups inclined to dislike their party’s politics. Obama, though, is seen as friendlier to religion than is his party. Both fare better than do Hollywood, the media and scientists.
Few in Public Follow Palin Closely
Most Americans (52%) say they have been hearing too much about Palin, far more than said so after her resignation in July (38%).
