Americans pessimistic about ethics, morality

PRINCETON, N.J. — More than three-quarters of Americans have a pessimistic view of the current state of ethics and morality, and even fewer see it getting better, according to a new Gallup Poll.

Seventy-seven percent of Americans rated current ethics and morality as “fair” or “poor,” while 22 percent rated them “good” or “excellent.” The ratings are nearly identical to a poll taken in May 2002.

George H. Gallup Jr., the firm’s chairman, said women, older people and churchgoers are the most critical of the country’s ethical climate. Gallup said there was little difference between conservatives, moderates and liberals. Gallup said “ethics and morality” usually ranks high on the list of American concerns. This year the category was statistically tied with terrorism, education, health care, fear of war and dissatisfaction with the government.