The Lincoln Democracy Institute (LDI) set out to tackle this challenge by creating the 2023 Lincoln Democracy Index. LDI, along with our partner QuestionPro, interviewed more than 17,000 registered voters between January and April 2023.
Featured Research
Uncovering the Fears that Shape America’s Psyche
March 2025 – This research explores the psychological and informational drivers of voter behavior, examining how micro-behaviors shape political choices, the role of ideology, and inclinations toward extremism and authoritarianism. We also assess how direct and indirect information influence political narratives and engagement. This presentation highlights the intersection of Americans’ fears, personality traits, and demographics,…
Survey Snapshot: Political Violence in 2024
October 2024 – A recent LDI survey revealed significant anxiety and unease surrounding the likelihood of political violence following the 2024 elections. The survey revealed widespread concern about the potential for political violence following the presidential election, with 87% of respondents indicating they believe it is likely to occur in the near future. Among them,…
All Research
Survey Snapshot: The Dynamics of Differing Viewpoints in Personal Relationships
October 2024 – A recent LDI survey has shed light on the challenges people face when discussing differing viewpoints with others. Approximately 57% of respondents reported losing a personal relationship because of disagreements. Despite this, many still recognize the importance of engaging in discussions with those who hold different views. Half of the surveyed individuals…
Survey Snapshot: Sentiments on Democracy
October 2024 – Our recent survey work has revealed key public sentiments on democracy, showing that voters’ views are deeply influenced by both personal experiences and institutional factors. The data suggests that democracy’s perceived health is directly impacted by trusted institutions like the media, policy frameworks, and economic conditions, highlighting the significant role these systems…
The Impact of Extremism on Democratic Norms in the US
August 2024 – Extremism, polarization, and violence are increasingly significant threats to the American electorate and the democratic principles upon which the United States was founded. These issues challenge the core values of democracy, making it more critical than ever to address their impact with a values-based and consumer-centric approach. Extremism manifests in various forms,…
The Root of Political Violence
August 2024 – Political violence is a growing concern in many parts of the world, often fueled by rising extremism and deep-seated divisions. Although current trends show a significant portion of radicalized individuals on one side of the political spectrum, the cycle of extremism can affect people across all political affiliations. This dynamic can lead…
Protecting Democracy in the Long Term
August 2024 – Protecting democracy in the long term requires a multifaceted approach that emphasizes civic education, robust institutions, and inclusive dialogue. Here are several key strategies to ensure the sustainability of democratic systems: Civic Education: Educating citizens about the principles and functioning of democracy is fundamental. Schools should incorporate comprehensive civics programs that teach…
Family Dynamics and Democracy: Navigating Political Discussions Across Generations
August 2024 – In a democratic society, the ability to engage in respectful and constructive conversations about differing political views within families can serve as a microcosm for broader societal interactions. When family members navigate their differences with empathy and a willingness to listen, they model the democratic principles of free speech, tolerance, and informed…