U.S. Birth Rate Falls to a Record Low; Decline Is Greatest Among Immigrants
Even with the decline, foreign-born women, who make up 17% of all women of childbearing age in the United States, continue to account for a disproportionate share of U.S. births, 23% in 2010.
Arab-American Media Bring News to Diverse and Growing Community
Arab-American media face the same challenges as news media generally as they try to serve one of the fastest growing ethnic groups in the United States.
Obama’s Re-election Win Sobered by Unmet Global Expectations
Much of the world cheered the November 6 re-election of U.S. president Barack Obama. But the president’s honeymoon may be short lived.
Young Voters Supported Obama Less, But May Have Mattered More
Barack Obama won 60% of the vote among those younger than 30, down from 66% in 2008, but his youth support may have been an even more important factor in his victory this year.
Cell Phones: They’re For More Than Just Making Calls
Fully 85% of American adults own a cell phone, and the devices have become a portal for an ever-growing list of activities. Taking photos and texting top the list.
The ‘Fiscal Cliff’ and Public Opinion
Just as the White House and Congress faced a deadline for an agreement on raising the debt ceiling in 2011, they now must reach a deal to avoid a “fiscal cliff” before year-end. And, they have to do it against the backdrop of a public that’s divided on how to reduce the deficit.
Many Countries Penalize Blasphemy, Apostasy and Defamation of Religion
As of 2011 nearly half of the countries and territories in the world (47%) have laws or policies that penalize blasphemy, apostasy or religious defamation.
No Reversal in Decline of Marriage
In 2011, 4.2 million adults were newly married, about the same number as in 2010 and sharply lower than the 4.5 million newlyweds estimated in 2008.
Parents Concerned About Teens’ Online Activities and Privacy
Most parents of teenagers are concerned about what their teenage children do online and how their behavior could be monitored by others.
More Following ‘Fiscal Cliff’ Debate Than Petraeus Investigation
Nearly identical percentages of Republicans (36%) and Democrats (35%) say they very closely followed the debate over the automatic spending cuts and tax increases that will take effect at the beginning of next year unless the president and Congress act.
