February 18, 2021: Thirty-two percent (32%) of voters believe that, over the next decade or so, American society will become more fair and decent. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 36% hold the opposite view and believe society will become less fair and decent. Twenty percent (20%) expect things to remain about the same, and 13% are not sure.[1]
Mixed views are found in all measured demographic groups. However, a plurality of Democrats, college graduates, urban voters, and upper-income voters express an optimistic view. Republicans, white voters, rural voters, and lower-income voters have a more pessimistic assessment.[1]
Data released earlier showed that 40% believe American society is generally fair and decent. Fifty percent (50%) hold the opposite view. These figures are little changed from last June but are notably more pessimistic than in the 1990s.[2]
Just 14% of voters think society is currently fair and decent and will get even better over the next decade.[1]
At the other end of the spectrum, 17% believe society is currently unfair and discriminatory and will get worse.[1]
Each weekday, Scott Rasmussen's Number of the Day explores interesting and newsworthy topics at the intersection of culture, politics, and technology. Columns published on Ballotpedia reflect the views of the author. Scott Rasmussen's Number of the Day is published by Ballotpedia weekdays at 9:00 a.m. Eastern. Columns published on Ballotpedia reflect the views of the author. Scott Rasmussen is founder and president of the Rasmussen Media Group. He is the author of "Mad as Hell: How the Tea Party Movement Is Fundamentally Remaking Our Two-Party System," "In Search of Self-Governance," and "The People's Money: How Voters Will Balance the Budget and Eliminate the Federal Debt." Read Scott Rasmussen's Reports — More Here.
Footnotes:
- ScottRasmussen.com, "Over next decade, 32% believe American society will become more fair and decent," February 16, 2021
- ScottRasmussen.com, "40% believe U.S. society is fair and decent, 50% disagree," February 16, 2021
© 2025 Newsmax. All rights reserved.