Over half in S'pore say society, technology changing too fast, and in ways that don't benefit them: Survey
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- More than half of people here believe society and technology are changing too quickly and in ways that do not benefit them, a survey by global public relations firm Edelman has found
- When people feel innovation is mismanaged, they are significantly more likely to believe that both technology and society are leaving them behind, said the 2024 Edelman Trust Barometer report, released on Tuesday (March 12)
- About half here also worry that government leaders, business leaders, and journalists are intentionally trying to mislead them by saying things they knew were false or gross exaggerations
- Experts say the findings reflect a more diverse and critical citizenry in today’s post-truth era, which may tend to be more sceptical – and even cynical – of those in power
- To overcome this distrust, leaders would do well to communicate transparently, ensure their actions align with their words, and take accountability in the event of any wrongdoings, experts added
BY DEBORAH LAU
Published March 12, 2024
Updated March 12, 2024
SINGAPORE — More than half of people here believe that society and technology are changing too quickly and in ways that do not benefit them, a survey has found.
Almost three in 10 (28 per cent) of Singapore respondents also believe innovation is poorly managed, while 24 per cent say it is well managed, the survey by global public relations firm Edelman said.
When people feel innovation is mismanaged, they are significantly more likely to believe that both technology and society are leaving them behind, said the 2024 Edelman Trust Barometer report, released on Tuesday (March 12).
The firm surveyed more than 32,000 respondents in 28 countries – or about 1,150 respondents per country, including in Singapore – in November last year for the 24th edition of its annual global survey on trust and credibility.
The survey also found that amid growing fears about risks such as hackers and climate change, about half in Singapore worry that government leaders, business leaders, and journalists are intentionally trying to mislead them by saying things they knew were false or gross exaggerations.
Nurjannah Suhaimi/TODAY
WHY IT MATTERS
Overall, Singapore respondents recorded a slightly higher level of trust in institutions to “do what is right”, compared to the year before.The 2024 trust index for Singapore – which measures the average trust in non-governmental organisations (NGOs), businesses, government, and media – rose to 67 per cent, from the 66 per cent recorded in both 2023 and 2022.
Yet, despite the increased trust in these institutions, more worry that they are being purposely misled by its people and leaders.
- More than half (55 per cent) in Singapore think journalists intentionally tried to mislead them, up from the 48 per cent who thought so the year before
- More than half (55 per cent) think business leaders intentionally tried to mislead them, compared to 50 per cent the year before
- Almost half (46 per cent) think government leaders intentionally tried to mislead them, compared to 42 per cent the year before
