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.
People in advanced and emerging economies have mixed feelings about social media’s impact on political life.
The digital divide between Americans who have a disability and Americans who do not remains for some devices.
The 2020 election featured dramatic increases in lawmaker posts and audience engagement, but less overlap in the sources shared by members of each party.
A median of 77% across 34 countries surveyed use the internet at least occasionally or own an internet-enabled smartphone.
Some Americans – particularly those who are younger or college educated – are finding virtual ways to connect, shop and be active.
A majority of Americans are turning to digital means to stay connected and track information about the coronavirus outbreak.
A majority of Americans are skeptical that tracking someone’s location through their cellphone would help curb the outbreak.
The tech landscape has changed dramatically over the past decade, both in the United States and around the world.
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.
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