2002-03-19-皮尤-Americans_Struggle_with_Religion_s_Role_at_Home_and_Abroad_60页_302kb

• Pew Research Release Summary (March 20, 2002):
  • Americans' Views on Religion: Most view religion’s global influence as positive and linked to U.S. strength, but opinions differ. Highly religious are more supportive, while secular individuals are more charitable toward Muslims, less so toward atheists. Generational divides exist: younger Americans see less need for religion at home.
  • Islam and Muslims: Favorable views are common, but Islam itself is seen more critically. Knowledge increases acceptance, yet widespread anti-American sentiment is believed by fewer. A commitment gap exists, with evangelicals emphasizing religion's role abroad.
  • Welfare Reforms: Americans approve of recent welfare changes, shifting focus to personal responsibility, though systemic issues are acknowledged.
  • National Service: Mandatory service faces generational resistance; young people oppose it more than older groups.
  • Corporate/Political Ethics: Public honesty ratings improved for Washington officials but declined for business leaders; the Enron scandal reflects perceived business decline.
  • Catholic Abuse Scandal: Public blames the Catholic Church for covering up abuse; interest was strongest among Catholics and Northeast residents.

- **Key Insights:**
  1. **Religion at Home & Abroad:**
    - Most Americans view religion’s influence in the world positively, with a slight increase in views before Sept. 11, returning to normal levels post-attack.
    - 51% think Sept. 11 shows too little religion in the world, while 28% think too much.
    - High commitment religious individuals see their faith as central to U.S. strength (83% of white evangelicals), while seculars see it less so.

  2. **Generational Divide:**
    - Younger Americans are more skeptical about religion's role. Sixty under 30 believe many religions can lead to eternal life, versus 75% of seniors.
    - Age affects views on mandatory national service and poverty causes.

  3. **Views on Islam:**
    - Public opinion on Muslims is slightly positive (50% favorable), but Islam is viewed negatively (60% enemy-like view).
    - Familiarity with Islam slightly improves opinions but doesn't reduce concerns about anti-American sentiment.

  4. **Social Issues & Welfare:**
    - Welfare reforms are seen as improving the system (46% view better).
    - Individual failure is the root cause of poverty for 61%, with Little historical decline in morals; current trust issues often blamed on Enron. 

  5. **Political Scandals:**
    - Catholic abuse cover-up is widely condemned; 85% believe leaders covered up issues.
    - Political endorsements by churches are opposed by 70%.