Optimism, Realism and Terrorism 2 Years On

Two years on from September 11th, more Americans are fearful of personal harm from a terrorist attack, more are doubtful that terrorism can be eliminated, and more believe the world has been changed fundamentally than thought it would be, according to a poll conducted for the Orlando Sentinel by Ipsos Public Affairs.

The results compare an Ipsos US Express poll conducted on September 11th as well as October 19-21, 2001, and an Ipsos US Express poll conducted on the weekend of September 5-7, 2003. Perhaps surprisingly, on the evening of September11th there were 21% of Americans who believed things would return to normal, while 74% believed that the events of 9-11 would prove to be a pivotal event. With two years' hindsight, only 12 % now believe things have returned to normal, while the vast majority of Americans (82%) now believe that the events were a turning point and 'fundamentally changed things forever'.

The proportion afraid of personal physical danger from a future terrorist attack is higher but still a smallish minority, reflecting ongoing bullishness. In the poll conducted in October 2001 only 15% of Americans were afraid, rising to 24% in September 2003.

The poll reports that 70% of Americans believe that the war on terrorism should be waged with the co-operation of allied nations: note however the use of 'allied nations' rather than any suggestion in the question of needing UN backing of majority support around the world. Perhaps more surprisingly, fully 27% believe the war on terrorism is something the US should conduct according to its own plan and goals, regardless of what other countries think.

More Americans are realistic - arguably pessimistic - after the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, with those who believe that the war on terrorism will lead to the end of terrorism in the world a dwindling band. Only 8% believe that efforts to eliminate the terrorist threat will be successful, compared to 12% of Americans who were hopeful in 2001.

All articles 2006-23 written and edited by Mel Crowther and/or Nick Thomas unless otherwise stated.

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