Most Americans believe the news media play an important role in democracy by informing the public and holding leaders accountable. However, they also think the media are not fulfilling this role well. Perceptions of media bias have increased significantly in recent decades. While many newer sources of news are viewed positively, social media is seen more negatively. Television remains the most popular news source, though it and other traditional media are losing trust and audience to online platforms.
Lee Rainie, director of internet and technology research, presented a synthesis of the Pew Research Center’s growing explorations of issues related to trust, facts and democracy at a forum hosted by the International Institute of Communications on December 5, 2018. His presentation covered Center findings related to declining trust in institutions, increasing challenges tied to misinformation and the ways in which concerns about trust and truth are linked to public attitudes about democracy.
This document discusses the harms of mass surveillance. It argues that surveillance can chill civil liberties by making people afraid to experiment with new ideas or discuss sensitive topics. Mass surveillance erodes intellectual freedom and trust between citizens and the state. The document also notes that most Americans want control over their personal information but few feel they have it, and only a small percentage trust the government to keep records safe. Surveillance programs in the U.S. collect information from emails, calls and online activity. Studies show people alter their behavior when reminded it is being monitored by the government.
How Millennials Use Technology to Get News: Differences by Race and EthnicityJonathan Blum
Millennials across racial and ethnic groups use technology and get news in mostly similar ways, but there are some differences. Hispanic and African American Millennials are more likely to use YouTube and Instagram for news than other Millennials. African Americans tend to follow lifestyle topics more, while Hispanics follow science/tech, environment, and foreign affairs more. Hispanic Millennials engage in fewer online activities like games and hobbies compared to white Millennials. White Millennials are more likely than others to say they use news to decide their views on issues. Overall access and motivations for news are similar, but some nuances exist in news sources and topics across racial/ethnic Millennial groups.
The document discusses the influence of mass media on U.S. elections. It notes that while voters see media as influential, they also distrust media coverage and think it focuses too much on trivial issues rather than substantive policy topics. Additionally, media coverage tends to emphasize the "horse race" aspects of elections rather than exploring candidates' positions. The document also examines questions around media bias, the impact of money and transparency in elections, and the rising influence of social media.
How Local People Learn about their Local CommunityGenaro Bardy
This document summarizes the key findings of a survey about how people learn about their local community. Some of the main points are:
- Americans use a variety of sources for local news, not just TV as commonly believed. Sources include newspapers, radio, internet, and word of mouth.
- Younger adults rely more on the internet while older adults still use more traditional sources like TV and newspapers.
- Newspapers play a bigger role than realized, ranking as the top source for information on 11 of 16 local topics like crime, government, and schools.
- The internet is increasingly important, especially for younger people, but no single source dominates as people pick sources based on topic.
This document summarizes key aspects of measuring and understanding public opinion in the United States. It discusses how public opinion is defined and measured through polling. Polls must use representative sampling, carefully worded questions, and account for respondent knowledge and biases. Many factors influence political attitudes, including family, gender, religion, education, social class, race, and geography. Ideology in the U.S. is generally viewed on a liberal-conservative spectrum, though definitions have changed over time. Most Americans do not have highly ideological views and vote based on group interests or current economic conditions.
The document discusses findings from a study on truth and politics. Some key findings include:
- People feel it is difficult to find truth in politics today due to the large amount of information. Politicians are often ranked as the least truthful profession.
- Issues like government spending and taxes are where people are least likely to think politicians tell the truth.
- While people want more truth in politics, some feel it is unrealistic to expect from politicians due to pressures of getting elected.
- When it comes to media, people still rely most on network news but feel the line between facts and opinions is blurred. People seek independent sources.
- There is a desire for changes to the political system or term limits to bring in
This study examines political ideological divides and views on assistance to the poor in the United States. Survey data from the General Social Survey is analyzed, looking at the relationship between income level, political ideology, and views on spending on assistance to the poor. The results show that lower-income individuals and those who identify as more liberal are more likely to believe not enough is spent on assistance. However, a majority across all income levels and political ideologies believe too little is spent. Ethnographic interviews provide further qualitative insight. The findings contradict some prior literature by suggesting the political divide on this issue may not be as stark as portrayed.
Lee Rainie, director of internet and technology research, presented a synthesis of the Pew Research Center’s growing explorations of issues related to trust, facts and democracy at a forum hosted by the International Institute of Communications on December 5, 2018. His presentation covered Center findings related to declining trust in institutions, increasing challenges tied to misinformation and the ways in which concerns about trust and truth are linked to public attitudes about democracy.
This document discusses the harms of mass surveillance. It argues that surveillance can chill civil liberties by making people afraid to experiment with new ideas or discuss sensitive topics. Mass surveillance erodes intellectual freedom and trust between citizens and the state. The document also notes that most Americans want control over their personal information but few feel they have it, and only a small percentage trust the government to keep records safe. Surveillance programs in the U.S. collect information from emails, calls and online activity. Studies show people alter their behavior when reminded it is being monitored by the government.
How Millennials Use Technology to Get News: Differences by Race and EthnicityJonathan Blum
Millennials across racial and ethnic groups use technology and get news in mostly similar ways, but there are some differences. Hispanic and African American Millennials are more likely to use YouTube and Instagram for news than other Millennials. African Americans tend to follow lifestyle topics more, while Hispanics follow science/tech, environment, and foreign affairs more. Hispanic Millennials engage in fewer online activities like games and hobbies compared to white Millennials. White Millennials are more likely than others to say they use news to decide their views on issues. Overall access and motivations for news are similar, but some nuances exist in news sources and topics across racial/ethnic Millennial groups.
The document discusses the influence of mass media on U.S. elections. It notes that while voters see media as influential, they also distrust media coverage and think it focuses too much on trivial issues rather than substantive policy topics. Additionally, media coverage tends to emphasize the "horse race" aspects of elections rather than exploring candidates' positions. The document also examines questions around media bias, the impact of money and transparency in elections, and the rising influence of social media.
How Local People Learn about their Local CommunityGenaro Bardy
This document summarizes the key findings of a survey about how people learn about their local community. Some of the main points are:
- Americans use a variety of sources for local news, not just TV as commonly believed. Sources include newspapers, radio, internet, and word of mouth.
- Younger adults rely more on the internet while older adults still use more traditional sources like TV and newspapers.
- Newspapers play a bigger role than realized, ranking as the top source for information on 11 of 16 local topics like crime, government, and schools.
- The internet is increasingly important, especially for younger people, but no single source dominates as people pick sources based on topic.
This document summarizes key aspects of measuring and understanding public opinion in the United States. It discusses how public opinion is defined and measured through polling. Polls must use representative sampling, carefully worded questions, and account for respondent knowledge and biases. Many factors influence political attitudes, including family, gender, religion, education, social class, race, and geography. Ideology in the U.S. is generally viewed on a liberal-conservative spectrum, though definitions have changed over time. Most Americans do not have highly ideological views and vote based on group interests or current economic conditions.
The document discusses findings from a study on truth and politics. Some key findings include:
- People feel it is difficult to find truth in politics today due to the large amount of information. Politicians are often ranked as the least truthful profession.
- Issues like government spending and taxes are where people are least likely to think politicians tell the truth.
- While people want more truth in politics, some feel it is unrealistic to expect from politicians due to pressures of getting elected.
- When it comes to media, people still rely most on network news but feel the line between facts and opinions is blurred. People seek independent sources.
- There is a desire for changes to the political system or term limits to bring in
This study examines political ideological divides and views on assistance to the poor in the United States. Survey data from the General Social Survey is analyzed, looking at the relationship between income level, political ideology, and views on spending on assistance to the poor. The results show that lower-income individuals and those who identify as more liberal are more likely to believe not enough is spent on assistance. However, a majority across all income levels and political ideologies believe too little is spent. Ethnographic interviews provide further qualitative insight. The findings contradict some prior literature by suggesting the political divide on this issue may not be as stark as portrayed.
Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide and Georgetown University’s Center for Social Impact Communication developed this study with the objectives of showcasing trends in cause involvement and evaluating the role of a variety of activities in fostering engagement. An online survey was conducted by TNS Global among a nationally representative sample of 2,000 Americans ages 18 and over. The survey was fielded November 30 to December 22, 2010, and has a margin of error of +/-2.2% at the 95% confidence level.
1) Online news and information consumption has become portable, participatory, and personalized as people access news on mobile devices and through social media.
2) Over half of American adults want more local news coverage. Local news enthusiasts are more engaged with social media and customizing their news experience.
3) As technologies change how people access and interact with information, news providers must leverage new formats like social networks to better engage audiences and disseminate their content.
Partisans remain sharply divided in their views of the news media according to a 2018 Pew Research Center survey. The survey found:
1) Democrats (82%) are much more likely than Republicans (38%) to think news media criticism keeps political leaders from doing things they shouldn't, continuing a large partisan divide from 2017. This gap is the largest in over 30 years of surveys.
2) Most Americans (71%) think news will be accurate, but many (68%) believe news organizations cover up mistakes. Most also feel the media doesn't understand them or that they are disconnected from their news sources.
3) While few have high trust in social media for news (4%), more have trust in national
This chapter aims to help students learn to identify and evaluate the foundations of the American legal and political system. It discusses social contract theory and how it influenced the development of the US political system. In particular, it examines how social contract theory holds that people accept a government's authority in exchange for protection of their natural rights like freedom of speech. The chapter also outlines the three branches of government established by the US Constitution: the executive, legislative, and judicial branches, and their various powers and functions.
The Pew Internet and American Life Project released a report examining how consumers find and consume news via a variety of sources and media platforms.
This document provides a summary of key findings from a 2015 survey of Washington insiders, including Capitol Hill staff, private sector policy professionals, and federal executives. Some of the main findings include:
- Washington insiders now obtain information from a wider variety of sources and view sources with inherent biases, seeking to verify information from consensus. Trust is now earned rather than assumed.
- While information proliferation initially made jobs easier, feelings have since sobered with increased partisanship and information overload.
- Insiders' primary concerns about social media use, like lack of privacy and criticism, have increased since 2012 alongside expanded usage.
- iPhones and iPads have overtaken Blackberries as the dominant
Exploring the Tools for Meme PropagationJoe Brewer
In this research report, I explore how we currently monitor cultural trends in our campaign efforts. I also want to begin mapping out the tools and capabilities that will be needed to fully operate as a “meme spreading” organization in the days ahead. We recently launched the One Party Planet pamphlet and have gathered a suite of social analytics that reveal much—both as indicators of spreading and as a demonstration of how much deeper and more nuanced our understandings will need to become as we adopt more sophisticated tools for cultural research moving forward.
The approach I take is to compare the spreading of One Party Planet with several memes that went viral as the United States experienced major racial conflict in the last two weeks. By doing so, we can begin to articulate what kinds of monitoring and analytic tools will be needed to fully implement our mission of taking radical ideas into the mainstream.
1) A majority of Americans said "made-up news" is a critical problem that is expected to worsen and impacts confidence in government. Most think steps should be taken to restrict made-up news and that news media has the greatest responsibility to reduce it.
2) Deepfake videos and domestic disinformation are sources likely to play a role in the 2020 election. Social media companies should prepare by detecting and removing deepfakes, limiting misinformation spread on platforms, and improving education.
3) Research found videos can be manipulated through missing context, deceptive editing, and malicious transformation, but providing more relevant counterarguments to misleading claims reduces belief in disinformation rather than strengthening it.
1) A majority of Americans said "made-up news" is a critical problem that is expected to worsen and impacts confidence in government. Nearly two-thirds think political divides make the problem harder to address.
2) Deepfake videos and domestic disinformation are likely to play a role in the 2020 US election. Social media companies should prepare by detecting and removing manipulated content and limiting the spread of misinformation.
3) Research shows that providing more relevant counterarguments can help reduce belief in misleading claims and disinformation, rather than strengthening beliefs as some argue. Additional counterarguments did not backfire if they were relevant to the original equivocal claim.
A majority of Americans said that "made-up news" is a critical problem that needs to be fixed, and expect the problem to worsen over the next five years. Deepfake videos and domestic disinformation are sources of disinformation that may play a role in the 2020 presidential election. Providing more relevant counterarguments to disinformation leads to reduced belief in the disinformation.
FINAL PRINT -Engagement in the Details - AN ANALYSIS OF READER INTERACTION AC...Nathan J Stone
This document is an introduction to a final project submitted by Nathan J. Stone for a master's degree. It discusses reader engagement with news across the New York Times and Facebook. It reviews literature on how people consume vast amounts of information through various sources like social media. It also discusses an experiment by NPR where they posted a fake news story to see how many people would comment without reading it. The introduction argues that for a democratic society, readers need to critically analyze and understand what they are reading rather than just scanning headlines. It will analyze reader comments on top stories from the New York Times and Facebook to examine the depth of engagement.
This document summarizes findings from a Pew Internet & American Life Project survey about those who do not use the Internet. It finds that 20% of non-users live with Internet users, 17% were previously users but stopped, and 24% have no experience with the Internet. While Internet access has grown across demographics, gaps remain between users and non-users based on age, income, education, location, and other social factors. Extending wireless access could help close gaps but the digital divide may persist due to other inevitable factors.
The survey found that over 45% of respondents across 5 countries saw the inability to have civil conversations with those holding opposing views as a major problem, though the severity varied by country. Politics, race/ethnicity, religion, and sexual orientation were consistently among the most difficult topics. Respondents believed they personally were generally better than others at having these difficult conversations. Solutions included electing civil leaders, encouraging more open communication among friends and families, and reforming campaign finance rules.
The document summarizes key findings from a survey about how Americans get their news in the digital era. It finds that most Americans get news from multiple platforms throughout the day, including both online and offline sources. Specifically, it notes that the internet has surpassed newspapers and radio as a popular news platform. It also discusses how news consumption is becoming more portable via mobile devices, personalized by customizing sources, and participatory through social sharing of news.
The document discusses the impact of social media on society. It addresses three main issues: personal relationships, privacy, and community engagement. Regarding personal relationships, some studies have found social media improves mood and teaches empathy. However, privacy is a concern as data mining and oversharing of information is common. Community engagement on social media has helped organize causes and spread awareness, though disagreements can also occur. In conclusion, social media has both benefits and risks to relationships, privacy, and civic participation.
Based on the arguments presented, I would vote for comprehensive immigration reform that includes enhanced border security and a path to citizenship. While illegal immigration is a complex issue with reasonable arguments on both sides, providing an opportunity for legal status recognizes the economic and family contributions of long-term residents, and is the most practical solution given the large population already in the country. A balanced approach that addresses both security and citizenship concerns seems the best policy option.
IPR Leger 2023 Disinformation in Society ReportOlivia Kresic
The survey of 2,200 Americans found that most still consider misinformation and disinformation to be major problems, though concerns decreased slightly from 2021. Three-quarters believe disinformation undermines elections and threatens democracy. While anxiety around disinformation is down, over half think AI will increase it. Americans trust friends and family the most for accurate information, followed by some local and national news sources. However, trust in political leaders and social media is low.
The document discusses various aspects of media coverage of American politics. It addresses what constitutes "the media", what types of events tend to get covered, and the importance of high-quality information for democracy. It also examines sources that Americans use to get their political information, the impact of media concentration, and whether the media has a liberal or conservative bias. Finally, it discusses the different roles media can play in a democracy, such as common carrier, watchdog, signaler and public representative.
The document discusses concerns about media bias and its influence on public opinion. It argues that many political figures have claimed major media outlets have a liberal bias, which could manipulate the American public and influence them to support Democratic policies and candidates. While media organizations have historically leaned liberal, the document asserts they should report news objectively without an ideological slant, as bias can seep into coverage in ways that sway the public. Overall, the text examines debates around alleged media bias and its potential effects on shaping political views.
Major internet companies like Google and Facebook have become important sources of news for many Americans. However, Americans have mixed views about these companies' role in curating and personalizing content. While many agree these companies help connect people and make them more informed, there are also concerns. Most Americans prefer that major internet companies show all people the same news topics and same news items from organizations, rather than personalized content. And many are worried that personalized news can give people a biased view and restrict certain viewpoints. Overall, Americans see business reasons like advertising as the primary motivations for personalized content over goals like a more informed public.
Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide and Georgetown University’s Center for Social Impact Communication developed this study with the objectives of showcasing trends in cause involvement and evaluating the role of a variety of activities in fostering engagement. An online survey was conducted by TNS Global among a nationally representative sample of 2,000 Americans ages 18 and over. The survey was fielded November 30 to December 22, 2010, and has a margin of error of +/-2.2% at the 95% confidence level.
1) Online news and information consumption has become portable, participatory, and personalized as people access news on mobile devices and through social media.
2) Over half of American adults want more local news coverage. Local news enthusiasts are more engaged with social media and customizing their news experience.
3) As technologies change how people access and interact with information, news providers must leverage new formats like social networks to better engage audiences and disseminate their content.
Partisans remain sharply divided in their views of the news media according to a 2018 Pew Research Center survey. The survey found:
1) Democrats (82%) are much more likely than Republicans (38%) to think news media criticism keeps political leaders from doing things they shouldn't, continuing a large partisan divide from 2017. This gap is the largest in over 30 years of surveys.
2) Most Americans (71%) think news will be accurate, but many (68%) believe news organizations cover up mistakes. Most also feel the media doesn't understand them or that they are disconnected from their news sources.
3) While few have high trust in social media for news (4%), more have trust in national
This chapter aims to help students learn to identify and evaluate the foundations of the American legal and political system. It discusses social contract theory and how it influenced the development of the US political system. In particular, it examines how social contract theory holds that people accept a government's authority in exchange for protection of their natural rights like freedom of speech. The chapter also outlines the three branches of government established by the US Constitution: the executive, legislative, and judicial branches, and their various powers and functions.
The Pew Internet and American Life Project released a report examining how consumers find and consume news via a variety of sources and media platforms.
This document provides a summary of key findings from a 2015 survey of Washington insiders, including Capitol Hill staff, private sector policy professionals, and federal executives. Some of the main findings include:
- Washington insiders now obtain information from a wider variety of sources and view sources with inherent biases, seeking to verify information from consensus. Trust is now earned rather than assumed.
- While information proliferation initially made jobs easier, feelings have since sobered with increased partisanship and information overload.
- Insiders' primary concerns about social media use, like lack of privacy and criticism, have increased since 2012 alongside expanded usage.
- iPhones and iPads have overtaken Blackberries as the dominant
Exploring the Tools for Meme PropagationJoe Brewer
In this research report, I explore how we currently monitor cultural trends in our campaign efforts. I also want to begin mapping out the tools and capabilities that will be needed to fully operate as a “meme spreading” organization in the days ahead. We recently launched the One Party Planet pamphlet and have gathered a suite of social analytics that reveal much—both as indicators of spreading and as a demonstration of how much deeper and more nuanced our understandings will need to become as we adopt more sophisticated tools for cultural research moving forward.
The approach I take is to compare the spreading of One Party Planet with several memes that went viral as the United States experienced major racial conflict in the last two weeks. By doing so, we can begin to articulate what kinds of monitoring and analytic tools will be needed to fully implement our mission of taking radical ideas into the mainstream.
1) A majority of Americans said "made-up news" is a critical problem that is expected to worsen and impacts confidence in government. Most think steps should be taken to restrict made-up news and that news media has the greatest responsibility to reduce it.
2) Deepfake videos and domestic disinformation are sources likely to play a role in the 2020 election. Social media companies should prepare by detecting and removing deepfakes, limiting misinformation spread on platforms, and improving education.
3) Research found videos can be manipulated through missing context, deceptive editing, and malicious transformation, but providing more relevant counterarguments to misleading claims reduces belief in disinformation rather than strengthening it.
1) A majority of Americans said "made-up news" is a critical problem that is expected to worsen and impacts confidence in government. Nearly two-thirds think political divides make the problem harder to address.
2) Deepfake videos and domestic disinformation are likely to play a role in the 2020 US election. Social media companies should prepare by detecting and removing manipulated content and limiting the spread of misinformation.
3) Research shows that providing more relevant counterarguments can help reduce belief in misleading claims and disinformation, rather than strengthening beliefs as some argue. Additional counterarguments did not backfire if they were relevant to the original equivocal claim.
A majority of Americans said that "made-up news" is a critical problem that needs to be fixed, and expect the problem to worsen over the next five years. Deepfake videos and domestic disinformation are sources of disinformation that may play a role in the 2020 presidential election. Providing more relevant counterarguments to disinformation leads to reduced belief in the disinformation.
FINAL PRINT -Engagement in the Details - AN ANALYSIS OF READER INTERACTION AC...Nathan J Stone
This document is an introduction to a final project submitted by Nathan J. Stone for a master's degree. It discusses reader engagement with news across the New York Times and Facebook. It reviews literature on how people consume vast amounts of information through various sources like social media. It also discusses an experiment by NPR where they posted a fake news story to see how many people would comment without reading it. The introduction argues that for a democratic society, readers need to critically analyze and understand what they are reading rather than just scanning headlines. It will analyze reader comments on top stories from the New York Times and Facebook to examine the depth of engagement.
This document summarizes findings from a Pew Internet & American Life Project survey about those who do not use the Internet. It finds that 20% of non-users live with Internet users, 17% were previously users but stopped, and 24% have no experience with the Internet. While Internet access has grown across demographics, gaps remain between users and non-users based on age, income, education, location, and other social factors. Extending wireless access could help close gaps but the digital divide may persist due to other inevitable factors.
The survey found that over 45% of respondents across 5 countries saw the inability to have civil conversations with those holding opposing views as a major problem, though the severity varied by country. Politics, race/ethnicity, religion, and sexual orientation were consistently among the most difficult topics. Respondents believed they personally were generally better than others at having these difficult conversations. Solutions included electing civil leaders, encouraging more open communication among friends and families, and reforming campaign finance rules.
The document summarizes key findings from a survey about how Americans get their news in the digital era. It finds that most Americans get news from multiple platforms throughout the day, including both online and offline sources. Specifically, it notes that the internet has surpassed newspapers and radio as a popular news platform. It also discusses how news consumption is becoming more portable via mobile devices, personalized by customizing sources, and participatory through social sharing of news.
The document discusses the impact of social media on society. It addresses three main issues: personal relationships, privacy, and community engagement. Regarding personal relationships, some studies have found social media improves mood and teaches empathy. However, privacy is a concern as data mining and oversharing of information is common. Community engagement on social media has helped organize causes and spread awareness, though disagreements can also occur. In conclusion, social media has both benefits and risks to relationships, privacy, and civic participation.
Based on the arguments presented, I would vote for comprehensive immigration reform that includes enhanced border security and a path to citizenship. While illegal immigration is a complex issue with reasonable arguments on both sides, providing an opportunity for legal status recognizes the economic and family contributions of long-term residents, and is the most practical solution given the large population already in the country. A balanced approach that addresses both security and citizenship concerns seems the best policy option.
IPR Leger 2023 Disinformation in Society ReportOlivia Kresic
The survey of 2,200 Americans found that most still consider misinformation and disinformation to be major problems, though concerns decreased slightly from 2021. Three-quarters believe disinformation undermines elections and threatens democracy. While anxiety around disinformation is down, over half think AI will increase it. Americans trust friends and family the most for accurate information, followed by some local and national news sources. However, trust in political leaders and social media is low.
The document discusses various aspects of media coverage of American politics. It addresses what constitutes "the media", what types of events tend to get covered, and the importance of high-quality information for democracy. It also examines sources that Americans use to get their political information, the impact of media concentration, and whether the media has a liberal or conservative bias. Finally, it discusses the different roles media can play in a democracy, such as common carrier, watchdog, signaler and public representative.
The document discusses concerns about media bias and its influence on public opinion. It argues that many political figures have claimed major media outlets have a liberal bias, which could manipulate the American public and influence them to support Democratic policies and candidates. While media organizations have historically leaned liberal, the document asserts they should report news objectively without an ideological slant, as bias can seep into coverage in ways that sway the public. Overall, the text examines debates around alleged media bias and its potential effects on shaping political views.
Major internet companies like Google and Facebook have become important sources of news for many Americans. However, Americans have mixed views about these companies' role in curating and personalizing content. While many agree these companies help connect people and make them more informed, there are also concerns. Most Americans prefer that major internet companies show all people the same news topics and same news items from organizations, rather than personalized content. And many are worried that personalized news can give people a biased view and restrict certain viewpoints. Overall, Americans see business reasons like advertising as the primary motivations for personalized content over goals like a more informed public.
The document discusses media bias from the perspectives of two articles - one by Xiaoyi Luo from outside the media and one by Paul Farhi from within the media. Both authors aimed to inform readers about media bias and its effects on voters. The document will compare and analyze the two articles rhetorically to better understand how media bias affects elections from different points of view based on research.
The survey of 2,002 Americans found:
1) Most Americans still view misinformation and disinformation as major problems compared to issues like border security and climate change.
2) Misinformation and disinformation are seen as undermining trust in elections and increasing polarization.
3) Americans view family, friends and like-minded individuals as the most trustworthy sources of news and least likely to spread disinformation.
4) Trust in social media and political leaders has declined since 2021 across party lines. Local news sources are among the most trusted.
Report #3 Changing Public Opinion Before beginning this MoseStaton39
Report #3: Changing Public Opinion
Before beginning this assignment, make certain that you have read Chapter 6 in your text (“Public Opinion
and Political Action”), the 2021 Pew Research Center Report titled “Americans See Broad Responsibilities for
Government; Little Change Since 2019” (March 17), and the 2020 article by Eli Finkel et al. from Science titled,
“Political Sectarianism in America” (October, Vol. 370, Issue 6516). Then write a brief report that contains
three separate sections that address all the points in each set of questions. Notice the expected word count
for each section (exceeding the word count will not negatively affect your grade, but please try to stay within
the range).
1. Relying on the Pew Research Center Report, briefly summarize what Americans think about the role
of the federal government in addressing various policy issues (indicate specific areas and indicate
where support is strongest and where it is weakest). Also, describe general levels of trust of and
contentment with the federal government and indicate what changes can be detected over time.
(approximately 150-200 words)
2. How do attitudes about federal government responsibilities differ by age, race, income, and
partisanship (Democrats and Republicans)? Be sure to indicate where the differences are the least and
where they are the greatest on each of these dimensions (age, race, income, and partisanship).
(approximately 150-200 words)
3. Based on your reading of “Political Sectarianism in America,” (a) summarize the article’s major
findings, (b) list and describe the three causes identified for the increase in political sectarianism, and
(c) identify and elaborate on a few of the consequences of this trend. (approximately 150-200 words)
Be careful not to plagiarize. If you want to quote directly, do so using quotation marks (giving the page number
if available). But try to do this sparingly and simply use your own words in addressing the questions.
In your writing, use an analytical tone that is free of your personal opinions. In other words, try to answer the
questions in a straightforward and objective manner.
When you are done, save the document as a Word file or as an Adobe PDF file (it cannot be Google docs, etc.)
and upload it through Moodle (these parts are very important!). Papers not uploaded by the deadline will receive
a grade penalty.
WARNING: This is an individual assignment and you are to do your own work. Use of another person’s
words without proper citation or copying from another student’s paper is considered plagiarism. All papers are
checked and retained in a plagiarism software program to identify cheating. Any suspicion of plagiarism or
other violations of the university’s academic conduct policies are turned over to the Dean of Students.
Links to the articles:
Pew Report: "Americans See Broad Responsibilities for Government"
Science: "Political Sectarianism in America"
...
This document summarizes a study on college students' media literacy and news consumption habits. It finds that students primarily get their news from social media and their peers, and have low levels of trust in traditional media. Students believe important news will "find them" through their online networks rather than actively seeking it out. The document also discusses the spread of disinformation online and challenges in combating fake news, as falsehoods spread faster and further than the truth. It concludes that media literacy education is needed to help students identify reliable sources and evaluate information critically.
This document summarizes a study that examined differences in media usage and perceptions among three generations. A survey of 185 people ages 19 and older was conducted. Group A (ages 19-30) primarily used social media for news and followed news least often. Group A also had the most negative perception of the media. Groups B and C (ages 31-60 and 61+) had a more positive view of past media and said it was fairer. The study found a distinct generation gap in how different age groups use and perceive the media today.
Mass media refers to communication technologies that reach a mass audience, including newspapers, magazines, television, radio, and the internet. There are four main types of mass media: print media, broadcast media, outdoor media, and the internet. Mass media plays several important roles in society, including shaping public opinion and political agendas, acting as a link between the government and people, and serving as a watchdog on the government. The impacts of mass media are complex and controversial, with some research finding strong media effects while other research finds little to no effects.
This document summarizes a student research project that examined how political party identification influences Americans' views of news media credibility and perceptions of the US-Russia relationship. The study found loose correlations between trusting news sources that share one's political ideology. Specifically, it found that Republicans had higher trust in Fox News while Democrats highly trusted the New York Times. Additionally, Democrats were more likely than Republicans to view Russia as an adversary and disapprove of Trump's policies toward Russia. The research aimed to understand how political views shape news consumption and perspectives on current events.
Chapter 8 Links and Info The following story comes from th.docxbissacr
Chapter 8 Links and Info
The following story comes from the Pew Research Center, which regularly does research on
different aspects of journalism. It considers the role of the Internet in the contemporary news
industry and audiences.
Here is the link if you would like to see the original story: http://www.journalism.org/
analysis_report/new_media_old_media
Understanding the Participatory News Consumer
How internet and cell phone users have turned news into a social experience
In the digital era, news has become omnipresent. Americans access it in multiple formats on
multiple platforms on myriad devices. The days of loyalty to a particular news organization on a
particular piece of technology in a particular form are gone. The overwhelming majority of
Americans (92%) use multiple platforms to get news on a typical day, including national TV, local
TV, the internet, local newspapers, radio, and national newspapers. Some 46% of Americans say
they get news from four to six media platforms on a typical day. Just 7% get their news from a
single media platform on a typical day.
The internet is at the center of the story of how people’s relationship to news is changing. Six in
ten Americans (59%) get news from a combination of online and offline sources on a typical day,
and the internet is now the third most popular news platform, behind local television news and
national television news.
The process Americans use to get news is based on foraging and opportunism. They seem to
access news when the spirit moves them or they have a chance to check up on headlines. At the
same time, gathering the news is not entirely an open‐ended exploration for consumers, even
online where there are limitless possibilities for exploring news. While online, most people say
they use between two and five online news sources and 65% say they do not have a single
favorite website for news. Some 21% say they routinely rely on just one site for their news and
information.
In this new multi‐platform media environment, people’s relationship to news is becoming
portable, personalized, and participatory. These new metrics stand out:
• Portable: 33% of cell phone owners now access news on their cell phones.
• Personalized: 28% of internet users have customized their home page to include news
from sources and on topics that particularly interest them.
• Participatory: 37% of internet users have contributed to the creation of news,
commented about it, or disseminated it via postings on social media sites like Facebook
or Twitter.
To a great extent, people’s experience of news, especially on the internet, is becoming a shared
social experience as people swap links in emails, post news stories on their social networking
site feeds, highlight news stories in their Tweets, and haggle over the meaning of events in
discussion threads. For instance, more than 8 in 10 online news consumers get or share links in
emails.
Chap.
Mark Willes, CEO of Deseret Media Company, will give a presentation on fairness, balance, and bias in the media. He will discuss how news organizations can be trusted voices that promote an informed citizenry. The document examines perceptions of media bias and how to determine if a news story or outlet exhibits unfairness or bias. It explores the differences between balance, fairness, and bias, and discusses cognitive biases that can influence perceptions of media bias.
Public opinion consists of attitudes held by many people about politics and government. It is shaped by factors like family, education, media, and historical events. Public opinion is measured through elections, polls, and media reporting. Scientific polls sample a representative group to accurately measure views. Major forms of media that influence public opinion are television, newspapers, radio, magazines, and the internet. Television and internet use has grown as sources for political news.
IPR Third Annual Disinformation in Society ReportOlivia Kresic
The document is the third annual report by the Institute for Public Relations on disinformation in American society. Some key findings from the report include:
- Nearly 70% of Americans view misinformation and disinformation as major problems in society, more than issues like infectious diseases or terrorism.
- Over 70% believe disinformation will prolong the COVID-19 pandemic and impacts elections and democracy.
- Facebook, politicians, and the U.S. government were seen as the top sources spreading disinformation.
- Americans have the most trust in family and friends as news sources and the least trust in social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter.
The document provides an overview of public opinion and political participation in the US. It discusses how Americans learn about politics through socialization agents like family, education, and media. It also examines how public opinion is measured through polls and surveys, and outlines Americans' varied political ideologies and levels of participation in the political process through activities like voting, protesting, and contacting elected officials.
Current Problems in the Media discusses several issues facing modern journalism according to surveys and studies. It finds that public trust in media accuracy has declined significantly in recent decades. Mistakes and factual errors are commonly seen in news stories by the public. There is also a tendency toward sensationalism and chasing exciting stories rather than important news. Media outlets are investing less in reporting and face increasing consolidation, which some argue prioritizes profits over quality journalism. Journalists themselves agree that major problems exist in serving readers.
Finding and engaging minority influencers on social mediaElon iMedia
Reach your whole potential audience. This white paper from Elon University's graduate program in Interactive Media describes best practices for reaching minority influencers on social media.
Similar to Knight foundation americansviews_client_report_010917_final_updated (20)
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HijackLoader Evolution: Interactive Process HollowingDonato Onofri
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Gen Z and the marketplaces - let's translate their needsLaura Szabó
The product workshop focused on exploring the requirements of Generation Z in relation to marketplace dynamics. We delved into their specific needs, examined the specifics in their shopping preferences, and analyzed their preferred methods for accessing information and making purchases within a marketplace. Through the study of real-life cases , we tried to gain valuable insights into enhancing the marketplace experience for Generation Z.
The workshop was held on the DMA Conference in Vienna June 2024.
3. AMERICAN VIEWS: TRUST, MEDIA
AND DEMOCRACY
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 Overview
2 Key Findings
4 Detailed Findings
4 Media Trust and Bias
17 Navigating the Modern Media Landscape
31 Potential Impact of Information on Attitudes
40 Role of the Media in a Democracy
51 Conclusion
52 Methodology
53 About the Knight Foundation
54 About the Ford Foundation
55 About the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
56 About the Open Society Foundations
57 About Gallup
58 Appendix: News Consumption Habits
(Top News Sources, Online Platform Use,
Importance of Political and Local News)