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.
Numbers, Facts and Trends Shaping Your World
Most think social media has made it easier to manipulate and divide people, but they also say it informs and raises awareness.
In April 2021, we followed up with many of the same parents surveyed in March 2020 on their children’s use of technology and social media.
People in advanced and emerging economies have mixed feelings about social media’s impact on political life.
Social media is an important tool for consumers, with some Americans – particularly younger adults – turning to influencer recommendations.
The 2020 election featured dramatic increases in lawmaker posts and audience engagement, but less overlap in the sources shared by members of each party.
Mobile phone users see a mix of benefits and pitfalls related to their devices, and Facebook and WhatsApp are among the most widely used digital platforms.
Many social media users in 11 emerging countries report being regularly exposed to misinformation when using the platforms.
Some 44% of liberal Democrats say they have used social media in the past year to encourage others to take action on an issue that was important to them. A similar share (43%) have taken part in a group that shares their interest in a cause.
Read 10 key findings from recent Pew Research Center reports about today’s digital news media landscape.
The rise of online streaming services such as Netflix and HBO Go has dramatically altered the media habits of Americans, especially young adults.
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