Catholics, Obama and Notre Dame
Most Catholics aware of the controversy support the University of Notre Dame’s decision to invite President Barack Obama to speak and receive an honorary degree at its May 17 commencement, even though he supports abortion rights and embryonic stem cell research. But a new poll also finds a deep division on this issue between the most observant Catholics and those who are less observant
Luxury or Necessity? The Public Makes a U-Turn
From the kitchen to the laundry room to the home entertainment center, Americans are paring down the list of familiar household appliances they say they can’t live without.
Most Mainline Protestants Say Society Should Accept Homosexuality
Most members of mainline denominations say society should accept homosexuality.
Public Has Split Verdict on Increased Level of Unmarried Motherhood
There is a stronger consensus in public opinion about the social cost of out-of-wedlock births than there is about the morality of these births.
Winds of Political Change Haven’t Shifted Public’s Ideology Balance
Still, ideological labels don’t always predict policy opinions; e.g.,about half of self-described conservatives say that all or some of the Bush tax cuts should be repealed while many liberals support off-shore drilling.
Will the Culture War Matter on Election Day?
Leading experts discuss the history of cultural divisions in American politics and what role, if any, they will play in the outcome of the November election.
Slight but Steady Majority Favors Keeping Abortion Legal
A recent Pew survey finds U.S. opinion on this perennial campaign issue remains in line with the historical pattern.
Religion in America: Non-Dogmatic, Diverse and Politically Relevant
The second major report on the U.S. religious landscape finds that most Americans do not believe their religion is the only way to salvation. This openness to other religious viewpoints is in line with the nation’s great diversity of affiliation, belief and practice as documented in a survey of more than 35,000 Americans.
Who Wants To Be Rich?
Anyone who thinks that Americans worship at the feet of the almighty dollar should ask the American public. In fact, a new Social Trends survey finds only 13% of adults say it’s “very important” for them to be wealthy, ranking this personal priority far behind six others measured.
Two Perspectives on Gay Marriage
To explore the issues raised by same-sex marriage, the Pew Forum interviewed former Sen. Rick Santorum, who opposes gay marriage, and journalist Jonathan Rauch, who argues in its favor.
