Partisan differences are common in the lessons Americans take away from COVID-19
Here’s what Americans said they learned about the development of vaccines and medical treatments and their advice for handling a future outbreak.
Numbers, Facts and Trends Shaping Your World
Here’s what Americans said they learned about the development of vaccines and medical treatments and their advice for handling a future outbreak.
Large shares of Americans support the U.S. taking steps to address global climate change and prioritize renewable energy development in the country. Still, fewer than half are ready to phase out fossil fuels completely and 59% oppose ending the production of gas-powered cars.
65% of Americans overall see clinical trials as very important, despite the time such trials add to the process of developing new treatments.
While residential solar power generates just a fraction of the country’s overall electricity, it has continued to grow rapidly.
Americans offer a lackluster evaluation of how the country has balanced priorities during the coronavirus outbreak. Fewer than half say the country has given the right amount of priority to the needs of K-12 students, public health or quality of life.
Black Americans hold multifaceted views when it comes to trust in medical research scientists: Majorities hold largely positive views of their competence, but express concern about the potential for misconduct.
Increasing representation in science is seen as important for attracting more Hispanic people to science.
Public concern about addiction is down even in the parts of the U.S. where drug overdose death rates have increased the most.
Overall, there are about 42.5 million Americans with disabilities, making up 13% of the civilian noninstitutionalized population.
Despite the many depressing stories dominating the international news cycle, there is also a note of positivity among survey respondents in views of the UN, the benefits of international cooperation for solving problems and the importance of common values for bringing nations together.
1615 L St. NW, Suite 800
Washington, DC 20036
USA
(+1) 202-419-4300 | Main
(+1) 202-857-8562 | Fax
(+1) 202-419-4372 | Media Inquiries
ABOUT PEW RESEARCH CENTER Pew Research Center is a nonpartisan fact tank that informs the public about the issues, attitudes and trends shaping the world. It conducts public opinion polling, demographic research, media content analysis and other empirical social science research. Pew Research Center does not take policy positions. It is a subsidiary of The Pew Charitable Trusts.
© 2024 Pew Research Center