Fact Check: A University of Chicago survey indicates that the vast majority of Americans do not support political violence, despite its increasing prevalence in the US.

Fact Check: "A University of Chicago survey indicates that the vast majority of Americans do not support political violence, despite its increasing prevalence in the US."

What We Know

A recent survey conducted by researchers from the University of Chicago and published in 2024 indicates a decline in the support for political violence among Americans. Specifically, the survey found that only 25.3% of respondents believed that violence is usually or always justified to achieve political objectives, which represents a 6.8% decrease from the previous year (findings from a 2023 nationally representative survey). Furthermore, the belief that a civil war is likely in the near future dropped to 5.7%, a 7.7% decrease from 2022 (findings from a 2023 nationally representative survey).

However, the survey also revealed concerning trends regarding the potential for armed violence. An increase was noted in the number of respondents who believed they would be armed in a situation where they consider political violence justified, rising to 9.0% (findings from a 2023 nationally representative survey). This duality in the findings suggests a complex landscape regarding public sentiment on political violence.

Analysis

The claim that the majority of Americans do not support political violence is supported by the survey's findings, which indicate a majority (74.7%) do not view violence as justified for political ends (findings from a 2023 nationally representative survey). However, the survey also highlights a significant minority that still considers political violence acceptable, and an increase in the likelihood of individuals predicting they would use firearms in such scenarios (findings from a 2023 nationally representative survey).

The source of this data, the University of Chicago's Chicago Project on Security and Threats (CPOST), is reputable and employs rigorous methodologies, including nationally representative sampling conducted by NORC, a respected survey research firm (Surveys - UChicago CPOST). This lends credibility to the findings. However, it is important to note that while the overall support for political violence has decreased, the rising predictions of armed engagement in political violence could indicate a troubling trend that complicates the narrative of declining support.

Moreover, the context of increasing incidents of political violence in the U.S. raises questions about the implications of these survey results. Experts have noted a growing concern regarding the normalization of political violence, which could influence public perceptions and behaviors (New Insight into Support for Political Violence From the Right ...).

Conclusion

The claim that a University of Chicago survey indicates the vast majority of Americans do not support political violence is Partially True. While the survey does show a majority opposing the justification of political violence, the significant minority that does support it, coupled with an increase in the likelihood of armed violence, suggests a more nuanced reality. This indicates that while overall support may be declining, the potential for violent actions remains a pressing concern.

Fact Check: A University of Chicago survey indicates that the vast majority of Americans do not support political violence, despite its increasing prevalence in the US.