2009-12-20-皮尤-Current_Decade_Rates_as_Worst_in_50_Years_22页_184kb

Summary of Key Findings: Pew Research Center Report on the Decade of the 2000s

Overall Perception of the Decade

• The public viewed the 2000s negatively, with 50% having a generally negative impression compared to 27% positive.
• Words like "downhill" or "poor" were commonly used to describe the decade, reflecting widespread discontent.
• This stands in contrast to positive views of past decades (e.g., the 1960s, 1980s, and 1990s), with generational differences evident.

Technological and Social Changes

• Positive views on technology: The internet, cell phones, email, and online shopping were seen as beneficial by clear majorities.
• Divisions exist on newer trends: Social networking sites and internet blogs generated ambivalent responses, with no strong consensus.
• Increased diversity, surveillance measures, and news options were viewed positively, while trends like reality TV were universally negative.

Generational and Demographic Insights

• Age gaps: Younger Americans (under 50) showed more positive views on past decades than older generations.
• Partisan divide: Republicans were more pessimistic about the 2010s compared to Democrats and independents.
• Religious and educational differences further influenced opinions, with white evangelical Protestants and higher education showing varied outlooks.

Future Outlook

• Most Americans (59%) expect the 2010s to be better than the 2000s for the country.
• Economic and political divisions highlighted a minority view that the next decade would be worse.

Notable Events

• The 9/11 attacks were deemed the most important event, while Obama's election and the financial crisis trailed behind.
• Younger demographics prioritized different events, such as the Iraq War, over those rated by older groups.

Key Conclusions

• The decade was marked by division and negative sentiment, influenced by political, technological, and social factors.
• Optimism for the future contrasts with criticism of past trends, highlighting evolving societal perceptions.