Pew Research Center's Blog, page 44

Restrictions and Hostilities in the Most Populous Countries: 2013

Among the world’s 25 most populous countries, Burma (Myanmar), Egypt, Indonesia, Pakistan and Russia stand out as having the highest levels restrictions on religion (as of the end of 2013).

Global Restrictions on Religion

Social hostilities involving religion declined in 2013, while government restrictions remained level. But harassment of Jews reached a seven-year high.

Dems Have More Positive Image, But GOP Runs Even or Ahead on Key Issues

While majorities say the Democratic Party is open and tolerant, the Republican Party runs even with them on the economy and immigration and holds double-digit leads over the Democrats on terrorism, foreign policy and taxes.

Growing Support for Campaign Against ISIS

About twice as many Americans approve (63%) as disapprove (30%) of the U.S. military campaign against ISIS. While the idea of sending ground troops is more divisive, it draws higher support than it did four months ago.

Increased Public Support for the U.S. Arming Ukraine

As fighting continues in eastern Ukraine between government forces and Russian-backed rebels, the public has become more supportive of sending arms to the Ukrainian government and increasing sanctions on Russia.

How Scientists Engage the Public

Most scientists (87%) believe it is important to participate in public policy debates. Almost half use social media to discuss or follow science, and nearly a quarter blog about science and research.

How Different Groups Think about Scientific Issues

Different demographic groups think differently about scientific issues. For example, those more likely to think genetically modified food is unsafe include women, African-Americans and Hispanics, and those without college degrees.

Political Discontent in Emerging, Developing Nations

A median of 52% across 31 emerging and developing nations surveyed are dissatisfied with their political system, with Middle Easterners and Latin Americans voicing the greatest displeasure.

Views of Job News Turn More Positive Over Past Year

For the first time since the end of the recession in 2009, a greater share of the public is hearing mostly good news (28%) than bad news (22%) about the job situation.

Large Majority Views Measles Vaccine as Safe

An 83% majority of Americans — including majorities across virtually every demographic and partisan group — say vaccines for diseases such as measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) are safe for healthy children.