Christian Research Morality Poll

A public opinion poll on behalf of Christian Research.

Date Published: 23 Dec 2011

Categories: Public and communities | Social | UK

Description

A Quarter of Us Still Optimistic Despite the Gloomy Economic Forecast

It’s been a year featuring widespread gloom and doom, yet surprisingly a quarter of the population are more positive about the future than they were at the start of the year – particularly those in the 18-34 age groups.

People felt more hopeful about their personal wellbeing (24%) and own neighbourhood/local community (17%), as opposed to British society in general (10%) and world affairs (8%).

The Christian Research poll also found that over half of respondents (56%) are likely to spend more time with family and/or friends next year, followed by actively looking out for the welfare of their neighbours (28%). This figure rises to 40% amongst people over 65, compared to just 14% of 18-24 year olds. In addition, 24% aspired either to be involved in initiatives that address their neighbourhood’s needs and/or act as a mentor to someone.

When it comes to celebrating Christmas over half (53%) of the population say they are intending to celebrate the Christian message.

This includes watching or listening to a Christmas service (27%); sending a religious themed Christmas card (22%); or going to a carol service (19%).

Interestingly, slightly more people said they intended to go to a church service on Christmas eve/day (21%) than pray (15%) this Christmas.

Women are more likely than men to say that they are intending to do most of these things – notably, a quarter of women (24%) attending a carol service, compared with just 15% of men.

As might be expected, those who regard themselves as Christians are more likely to do the above, although a quarter of Christians are not intending to do any of them this Christmas.

Finally, half of all respondents indicated they regard themselves as Christian. Younger people (18-24), however, are less likely to agree (23%) compared to 69% of people aged 65 or over.

Amongst the tumultuous events of 2011, the world has witnessed the end of Hosni Mubarak, Muammar al-Gadaffi and Kim Yong-il’s leadership, Osama Bin Laden’s death, a tsunami strike North East Japan, the spring Royal Wedding and summer inner-city riots. The Arab spring and urban unrest have caused a quarter of the population to reflect on faith-based moral values (both 26%). The Arab uprisings affected more of those aged 55+, the inner-city riots strongest amongst 18-24s and 55+ age groups.

Methodology Note: ComRes conducted an online survey of 2,009 GB adults between the 9th and 11th December 2011. Data were weighted to be demographically representative of all GB adults. ComRes is a member of the British Polling Council and abide by its rules.