Nearly two-thirds of younger Brits say ‘hostile activism’ – such as violence, vandalism and misinformation – is an acceptable way of achieving political goals

Nearly two-thirds of younger Brits believe that ‘hostile activism’ such as violence, vandalism and misinformation is an acceptable ways of achieving political goals.

And less than a fifth have any optimism that things will be better for the next generation. 

The grim findings have emerged in the latest Edelman Trust Barometer, which carries out surveys around the world.

It suggested that 70 per cent of people in the UK have a moderate or high sense of ‘grievance’ – meaning they feel government, business and the media do not work in their best interests.

That was higher than the global average of 61 per cent.

Just 36 per cent around the world have confidence that their children will be in a better situation.

In the UK the figure was a mere 17 per cent, below Sweden – 19 per cent – Canada on 21 per cent and Ireland on 22 per cent. 

In the US just 30 per cent were positive about the prospects, despite strong economic growth in recent years.

Around the globe, four in 10 approved of one or more out of violence, property damage and misinformation as tools for political change. 

That figure rose to 53 per cent among those aged 18–34 – and in the UK it was 61 per cent for that age group.

Worldwide, 55 per cent of 18–34-year-olds said that capitalism does more harm than good. 

Only 33 per cent agreed that those with different political views ‘play by the rules’, and nearly half of Gen Z doubted their governments were fairly elected. 

Five of the largest 10 global economies are among the least trusting nations on the Trust Index.

Japan scored lowest on 37, Germany 41, the UK 43, the US 47 and France 48.

Edelman chief executive Richard Edelman said: ‘Over the last decade society has devolved, from fears to polarisation to grievance. 

‘Incumbents in the US, UK, France, Germany, Korea and Canada were ousted amid voter anger over job loss to globalization and inflation. 

‘We now see a zero-sum mindset that legitimises extreme measures like violence and disinformation as tools for change.’

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