A new BBC poll says that Americans trust the American government, more than the media that covers it.
On average 61% said they trusted the media, compared to 52% who believed their government’s explanations.
The poll also highlights growing use of internet news sources, including blogs, especially among young people.
Results varied across the range of countries surveyed. Trust in journalists was highest in Nigeria (88%, with 34% trusting the government), Indonesia (86% v 71%), India (82% v 66%) and Egypt (74%; government question not asked).
Only in three countries did governments score higher than the media. In the US, 67% said they trusted the government compared with 59% prepared to put their trust in the media.
