This time of year, Americans feel pessimistic about political divisions and the potential for social media to threaten the country's democracy. The majority also expect that political discussions will not take place at the family table, as a study by the Benenson Strategy Group (BSG) shows.
Attitudes toward these holidays are mixed among Americans. 40 percent feel under pressure and are worried. Women express more concern at 42 percent than excitement at 32 percent. For men it is exactly the opposite. 41 percent are excited, closely followed by 37 percent who are worried.
“No politics at the dinner table”
“No politics at the dinner table” is a common request when families gather for the holidays. According to BSG, most people adhere to this requirement. At 59 percent, the majority of Americans don't talk about politics with family during the holidays. Only six percent discuss politics with their family. Gen Z and Millennials are more likely to discuss politics than their Gen X and Boomer parents and grandparents. 70 percent of those surveyed expect more political disputes and dissatisfaction in 2023 - not least on the social web.
Pessimism is spreading in the USA. 70 percent believe politics will become more divisive and controversial under the new divided Congress. Only 30 percent hope that the election results will make the government more efficient. These gloomy prospects for the future are cross-partisan and shared by men and women, old and young, both in the city and in the country. Similarly, three-quarters of Americans say a divided Congress will give extreme elements in both parties more influence in debates. This would make it harder to reach compromises and get things done. 70 percent see the USA on the wrong path. Approval for President Biden is 45 percent.
YouTube is the only exception
Social media is seen as a threat to democracy because it divides people more than it brings them together, it is said. 68 percent believe that Facebook, Twitter and Co are weakening democracy. Only 32 percent assume that this will make them stronger. 70 percent claim that social media pits people against each other. Only 30 percent believe that social media creates more understanding and brings people together. The negative impact on people and politics is not limited to any particular platform – except YouTube. 31 percent see the unifying factor in strengthening democracy. For Twitter and Facebook this ratio is 2:1.
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