Severe Economic Fears Drive Global Grievances, Survey Finds
A survey by Edelman reveals escalating economic concerns have transformed into widespread grievances among 60% of individuals. Notably, many respondents believe hostile actions, including violence, may be necessary for societal change.
The survey encompassed 33,000 respondents across 28 countries. It exposed significant mistrust in governments and businesses, perceived as prioritizing the interests of the wealthy.
As the World Economic Forum gathers in Davos under the theme "Collaboration for the Intelligent Age," thesurvey found that four in ten respondents approve of hostile tactics to provoke change. These actions include violence, threats, online attacks, disinformation, and property damage.
Support for hostile actions is particularly high among respondents aged 18 to 34, reaching 53%.
"These results are profound," said Richard Edelman, CEO of Edelman. "Over the past decade, we've witnessed a progression from fears to polarization and now to grievance."
The discontent stems from concerns about the cost of living, job security in the face of AI, lack of hope for the future, class divisions, mistrust in leaders, and information reliability.
In Western democracies, the outlook for future generations is bleak: 9% in France, 17% in the UK, and 30% in the US.
"Reversing grievance-based societies requires collaborative efforts from institutions to address information integrity, affordability, sustainability, and the future of AI," Edelman stressed.