America is taking a ‘puritanical turn’ and growing more socially conservative

WorldPolitics
10 Jun 2026 • 1:40 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

America is taking a ‘puritanical turn’ and growing more socially conservative

  • A new Gallup poll indicates a growing social conservatism in the U.S., with fewer Americans finding certain behaviors morally acceptable.
  • The survey revealed record-low acceptance for birth control (83%), gambling (57%), and cloning animals (27%).
  • Significant declines in moral acceptability were also observed for having a baby outside marriage (down to 58%) and sex between teenagers (down to 35%).
  • This shift is seen by some as a “puritanical turn,” potentially linked to increased religiosity among young men and efforts by Trump administration officials to promote Christianity and restrict contraception.
  • Changes in opinion are largely driven by independent voters, suggesting a potential “pendulum swinging away” from traditional liberal principles.

IN FULL

Newswav Malaysia Best News App

Newswav is an online content aggregator and obtains its content from different online sources. The content in the app do not belong to Newswav nor do they reflect the opinions of Newswav and its staff. Your use of this app indicates your understanding and acceptance of this information.

Newswav Sdn. Bhd. (201701008480 (1222645-M)) 2026 All Rights Reserved