Trust and mistrust in Americans’ views of scientific experts

In an era when science and politics often appear to collide, public confidence in scientists is on the upswing, and six-in-ten Americans say scientists should play an active role in policy debates. At the same time, partisans are divided over how they view the value and objectivity of scientific experts.

• 5 key findings about public trust in scientists in the U.S.
• Most Americans have positive image of research scientists, but fewer see them as good communicators
• Democrats and Republicans differ over role and value of scientists in policy debates

A week in the life of popular YouTube channels

An analysis of every video posted by high-subscriber channels in the first week of 2019 finds that children’s content – as well as content featuring children – received more views than other videos. A small share of highly active creators produced a majority of the content posted on these popular channels.

In emerging economies, smartphone and social media users have broader social networks

Smartphone users in emerging economies – especially those who use social media – tend to be more exposed to people with different backgrounds and more connected with friends they don’t see in person.

• Pluralities in most emerging economies believe government should ensure equal internet access

10 facts about Americans and Twitter

About one-in-five adult Twitter users in the U.S. follow Trump

Couples who meet online are more diverse than those who meet in other ways, largely because they’re younger

Mail-in DNA test results bring surprises about family history for many users

U.S. public has little confidence in social media companies to determine offensive content

About three-in-ten U.S. adults say they are ‘almost constantly’ online

Americans have become much less positive about tech companies’ impact on the U.S.

46% of U.S. social media users say they are ‘worn out’ by political posts and discussions

Smartphones help blacks, Hispanics bridge some – but not all – digital gaps with whites

Most U.S. teens who use cellphones do it to pass time, connect with others, learn new things

How Americans see the future of space exploration, 50 years after the first moon landing