The Internet and Civic Engagement

Political and civic involvement have long been dominated by those with high levels of income and education, leading some advocates to hope that internet-based engagement might alter this pattern. However, a new report by the Pew Research Center''s Internet & American Life Project shows that the internet is not changing the fundamental socio-economic character of civic engagement in America. When it comes to online activities such as contributing money, contacting a government official or signing an online petition, the wealthy and well-educated continue to lead the way.

This survey was conducted August 12 and 31, 2008 by PSRAI for the Pew Internet and American Life Project among 2,251 adults. To view more from this survey, click here.

Back to Current News