Large majority perceives society as split - journalism as important for functioning democracy

Large majority perceives society as split - journalism as important for functioning democracy

A Allensbach survey shows that the majority of people in Germany find society divided. Good journalism is important for the functioning of democracy for around 90 percent of respondents. Social media are viewed by 89 percent as amplifiers of the division of society. The survey underlines the importance of independent media and established journalists for the functioning of democracy and society. 91 percent of those surveyed consider good journalism to be important or very important for the functioning of democracy, while 89 percent consider it important or very important to society. Magazines and newspapers are regarded by 54 percent as a counterweight to divide society, while social media, influencers and internet forums are viewed by most of the split. The survey also shows that 79 percent of those who notice a division of society determine them to hostility from political actors and 73 percent perceive an increasingly aggressive tone in political debates. In addition, there is an increasing distrust of established media and attacks on journalists are seen as signs of increasing polarization in society. People want more respect and fairness as well as protection against hate and agitation on the Internet. The survey also shows that traditional sources of information such as newspapers, magazines and television channels are more familiar on the Internet than general internet information. The sender plays an important role as a trust anchor and guarantee of quality.

Source: media association of the Freie Presse e.V./OTS