The Fishlinger Optimism Index: Americans More Optimistic About Social Progress in June

7/7/2017

The Fishlinger Optimism Index™, a breakthrough measurement of public opinion centered on Americans’ optimism about the future from the Fishlinger Center for Public Policy Research at the College of Mount Saint Vincent, has risen significantly, reaching 69 percent in June. This may be attributable to the stock market’s record performance during the first half of the year.

Other factors that may have contributed to the surge in Americans’ optimism include: former F.B.I. director James Comey’s testimony before the Senate Intelligence Committee about the investigation into the alleged cooperation between President Donald Trump’s campaign and Russian officials; the subsequent initiation of a special counsel investigation into Russia’s role in the 2016 U.S. presidential election; and the Senate’s failure to pass an unpopular plan to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act. Internationally, the beginning of economic recovery in Europe and the victory of the newly-elected French president Emmanuel Macron over populist presidential candidate Marine Le Pen, may have also helped boost optimism.

The Fishlinger Optimism Index™ is more than an economic measurement. It is built on opinion data for public officials, social and political issues, beliefs about the United States’ place in the world, and a series of value statements dealing with individuals’ feelings of success and security, as well as on ratings of government policies and officials.

In measuring national leadership, the Fishlinger Optimism Index™ assesses public expectations for the effectiveness of federal policy and the quality of governance both domestically and in global affairs. Social progress examines the potential for progressive reform. Personal prosperity explores individuals’ sense of achievement and economic stability

Survey Methodology
In this study, the Fishlinger Center conducted online national surveys focusing on political issues in the United States. The fieldwork for the polls was conducted using a blended national panel form Survey Sampling, Inc. Interviews were conducted November 29-December 15, 2016 and January 3-June 30, 2017. The credibility interval for 1,000 respondents is plus or minus three percentage points. The credibility interval is larger for subgroups and for differences between polls.

In addition to credibility interval, the polls are subject to other potential sources of error including, but not limited to, coverage and measurement error. Data was rim weighted to match the national population on age, sex, Hispanic origin, and race. Question wording and topline results are available at fishlingercenter@mountsaintvincent.edu.

About the Fishlinger Center for Public Policy
The Fishlinger Center for Public Policy Research opened in February 2015 at the College of Mount Saint Vincent. The Center conducts deep and broad studies of public opinion on key public policy concerns through independent and objective research conducted by students, faculty, and other members of the academic community.

By providing a forum for discourse that can stimulate intelligent dialog about issues that deeply affect all Americans, the Center illustrates and enhances the relationship between the work of the College and the common good.

James F. Donius, Ph.D., director of the Fishlinger Center for Public Policy Research at the College of Mount Saint Vincent, is available to speak to members of the press about the survey, the Fishlinger Optimism Index™, and the Center. To arrange an interview, or for more information about the study, please contact Public Relations at publicrelations@mountsaintvincent.edu.

About the College of Mount Saint Vincent
Founded in 1847 by the Sisters of Charity, the College of Mount Saint Vincent offers nationally recognized liberal arts education and a select array of professional fields of study on a landmark campus overlooking the Hudson River. Committed to the education of the whole person, and enriched by the unparalleled cultural, educational, and career opportunities of New York City, the College equips students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary for lives of achievement, professional accomplishment and leadership in the 21st century.