Misinformation Online

Across 27 countries surveyed, people generally see social media as more of a good thing than a bad thing for democracy.

Here’s a look back at 2023 through some of our most striking research findings.

Most Americans say the U.S. government and technology companies should each take steps to restrict false information and extremely violent content online.

As they watch the splashy emergence of generative artificial intelligence and an array of other AI applications, experts participating in a new Pew Research Center canvassing say they have deep concerns about people's and society's overall well-being. At the same time, they expect to see great benefits in health care, scientific advances and education

Since Elon Musk's take over of Twitter, Republican users have more positive views of the site, while those of Democratic users are more negative.

In recent years, several new options have emerged in the social media universe, many of which explicitly present themselves as alternatives to more established social media platforms. Free speech ideals and heated political themes prevail on these sites, which draw praise from their users and skepticism from other Americans.

Public views are tied to how these technologies would be used and what constraints would be in place.

Asked to "imagine a better world online," experts hope for a ubiquitous – even immersive – digital environment that promotes fact-based knowledge, offers better defense of individuals’ rights, empowers diverse voices and provides tools for technology breakthroughs and collaborations to solve the world’s wicked problems.

The declining public trust in the news media and polarization of news audiences have profound effects on civic life.

Many experts say public online spaces will significantly improve by 2035 if reformers, big technology firms, governments and activists tackle the problems created by misinformation, disinformation and toxic discourse. Others expect continuing troubles as digital tools and forums are used to exploit people’s frailties, stoke their rage and drive them apart.