Americans’ Complicated Relationship With News
Most people believe Americans have a civic responsibility to be informed when they vote. But far fewer say regularly following news is extremely or very important.
Numbers, Facts and Trends Shaping Your World
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Trust in Media
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Across Western Europe, public news media are widely used and trusted sources of news
In seven Western European countries surveyed, the top main source for news is a public news organization – such as the BBC in the UK, Sveriges Television/Radio (SVT/Radio) in Sweden or ARD in Germany – rather than a private one.
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Publics Globally Want Unbiased News Coverage, but Are Divided on Whether Their News Media Deliver
A global median of 75% want their news media to be unbiased when covering political issues, yet many say the news media do a poor job of reporting on political issues fairly.
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Most Americans get their science news from general outlets, but many doubt their accuracy
Where do Americans go to stay informed about science topics? Here are some key takeaways about Americans’ science news habits today.
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Most officers say the media treat police unfairly
Among the challenges U.S. police officers perceive on the job is a widespread feeling that police are mistreated by the media.
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Most Americans trust the military and scientists to act in the public’s interest
Three-quarters or more of Americans are confident in the military, medical scientists and scientists in general to act in the best interests of the public. But fewer than half report similar confidence in the news media, business leaders and elected officials.
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The Modern News Consumer
Digital innovation has had a major impact on the public’s news habits. How have these changes shaped Americans’ appetite for and attitudes toward the news?
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Key findings on the traits and habits of the modern news consumer
News remains an important part of public life. But Americans are cautious as they move into today’s more complex news environment and discerning in their evaluation of available news sources.
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Millennials’ views of news media, religious organizations grow more negative
Since 2010, Millennials’ rating of churches and other religious organizations has dipped 18 percentage points. Their views of the national news media also have grown more negative.
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Which news organization is the most trusted? The answer is complicated.
Using data from our latest media survey, we look at different ways to measure public trust of news organizations.
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Public Esteem for Military Still High
More than three-quarters of Americans continue to believe that members of the military contribute “a lot” to society’s well-being. By contrast, only 37% say clergy make a big contribution to society, and journalists have dropped the most in public esteem since 2009.
