Trust in Government

At a time of growing stress on democracy around the world, Americans generally agree on democratic ideals and values that are important for the United States.

The U.S. has more foreign students enrolled in its colleges and universities than any other country in the world. Explore data about foreign students in the U.S. higher education system.

Experts are split on whether the coming years will see less misinformation online. Those who foresee improvement hope for technological and societal solutions. Others say bad actors using technology can exploit human vulnerabilities.

Many experts say lack of trust won't hinder increased public reliance on the internet. Some expect trust to grow as tech and regulatory changes arise; others think it will worsen or maybe change entirely.

Changes in the dynamics of power in Washington have registered with members of both political parties.

Many experts fear uncivil and manipulative behaviors on the internet will persist – and may get worse.

Many people in South Africa, Nigeria and Kenya are concerned about their countries' political and economic systems. Yet, there is considerable optimism about the future.

Three-quarters or more of Americans are confident in the military, medical scientists and scientists in general to act in the best interests of the public. But fewer than half report similar confidence in the news media, business leaders and elected officials.

Reflecting a time of growing partisan polarization, Republicans and Democrats hold very different views on the impact of many of the nation's institutions.

There's more money in the political system than at any time since the reforms of the 1970s, a trend that concerns most Americans regardless of party or ideology.