Publications

More in Common took shape from work undertaken since 2016 to understand why so many societies were dividing around debates about their identity and belonging, and why people were being increasingly persuaded to see debates about immigration, refugees and diversity through the lens of ‘us-versus-them’. Since then, we have broadened our research agenda and incorporated several layers of social psychology research to provide a deeper analysis of the different factors contributing to polarization and social fracturing.

More in Common’s published studies of public attitudes in several European countries and the United States are already regarded as among the most insightful and actionable analyses of public opinion. Our team also published papers on polarization, social media and the psychology of political behavior.

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Americans’ Memories of the Afghanistan War

August 2022
Press Release

Based on our survey conducted among 1000 Americans and several online focus groups, this report explores Americans’ perceptions and memories of the war in Afghanistan. We find that the public shares high levels of negativity towards the war, and that an alarming narrative of “another Vietnam” is taking hold with many Americans.

Britons and Refugees The last six months

July 2022
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Our research shows that when it comes to immigration simply proposing ever more punitive measures won’t hold the Tory coalition together. While the Rwanda plan might resonate with some parts of the Tory base it is toxic to others. Instead, a policy that could reach across both blue and red walls needs to balance tough action against people smugglers and detering small boats with compassion and humane treatment for those fleeing persecution.

Navigieren im Ungewissen: Impulse zur Zukunft unserer Gesellschaft

July 2022
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Amidst multiple crises, German society is in need of togetherness, orientation and confidence. Drawing on polling from over 4,000 adults and several focus groups, we examine in this four-paper series how people experience challenges such as Covid and war in Europe, what aspirations they have for tomorrow – and how political and social actors can help shape a future that inspires them with hope.

Navigating Climate Change in Europe: The Choices Ahead

July 2022
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Drawing on polling from 26,000 people and over 50 focus groups across France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain and the UK in 2021 and 2022, "Navigating Climate Change in Europe: The Choices Ahead" explores how to best build on the wide public consensus for climate action to advance much-needed climate solutions.

Übers Klima reden

June 2022
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How can we shape a constructive climate debate in Germany that engages (new) audiences across dividing lines? Climate Outreach, klimafakten.de and More in Common have joint forces to help societal actors reach population segments so far underrepresented or misunderstood in the climate conversation. Building on extensive research and conversations with relevant actors, we share our practice-oriented insights in this report and corresponding webinars.
Exploring American Identity Part 2

Exploring American Identity Part 2

June 2022

Drawing from our survey conducted among 2500 Americans in May-June 2022, this report explores key narratives that Americans identify both in their own family history and in the shared American history. Some are broadly shared across the population, while others are experienced more strongly by particular groups. Although the Fourth of July evokes stories of national history, we find that personal stories of family history are a more powerful way to break through ‘us versus them’ narratives.

Parlons Climat

June 2022
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The societal movement in favor of environmental protection and the fight against climate change has grown in recent years. However, this growth of the movement is currently losing speed, or even decreasing. And at the same time, ecology is becoming a new subject of tension. Faced with these major challenges, we have created the Parlons Climat program, in partnership with the European Climate Foundation, and with the support of the Daniel and Nina Carasso Foundation.

Britons and Gender Identity: Navigating Common Ground and Division

June 2022
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An in-depth analysis of the British public’s attitudes to gender identity and trans equality. Based on polling of more than 5,000 people and 20 focus groups, the report finds that the divisive debate playing out in Westminster and social media is out of sync with the public’s approach to the issue.

In the minds of abstainers: listening to those who are silent

June 2022
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In June 2022, Destin Commun published a study on electoral abstention, in partnership with think tank Fondation Jean Jaurès. Abstention is on the constant rise in France, reaching 28% at the last presidential election. It weakens the legitimacy of elected officials, and threatens social cohesion, with accusation of irresponsibility on the one hand, and deep dismay and distrust on the other. This qualitative study explores the various causes of abstention and the mindscape of abstainers, and formulates recommendations to reengage those who feel unheard.

Exploring American Identity Part 1

June 2022
Press Release

The recognition of Juneteenth as a federal holiday presents a new opportunity to reflect on lessons of the past and weave more Americans’ histories into our shared identity. In May and June 2022, More in Common partnered with YouGov to field a national survey to a representative sample of 2,500 adult U.S. citizens. This survey is the first of three that will be fielded in 2022 to explore associations with American identity, figures and events in American history, connections to national holidays, aspirations for our shared future, and more.