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54% Have Favorable Opinion of Pope Benedict XVI
Just 25% Say Apology Needed for Speech
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Pope Benedict XVI made headlines last week when remarks contained within a speech he gave in Germany were deemed offensive by the Muslim community. Sixty-one percent (61%) of respondents to a recent Rasmussen Reports survey say they’ve been following the news of the Pope’s misstep closely, including 27% saying they’ve followed the news “very closely.” Thirty-eight percent (38%) say they have not been following the story.

Just 25% of Americans believe the Pope should apologize for his comments. Forty-eight percent (48%) disagree (See crosstabs).

More than half of those surveyed (54%) now have a favorable opinion of the Pope. Twenty-two percent (22%) view him unfavorably. Those figures reflect an improving perception of the Pope, who was viewed favorably by 34% shortly after his selection to lead the Catholic Church.

Seventy-seven percent (77%) of those surveyed believe freedom of speech is more important than preventing offensive remarks. Fifteen percent (15%) say the reverse is true. However, a majority of respondents (53%) believe that it is the responsibility of those in the public eye to choose their words carefully to avoid giving offense. Thirty-three percent (33%) believe public figures have the freedom to speak as they wish.

During the speech in question, the pontiff included a quote from a 14th century Christian emperor who said that the Prophet Muhammad, the father of Islam, brought only evil and inhumane things into the world.

Crosstabs available for Premium Members only.

Rasmussen Reports is an electronic publishing firm specializing in the collection, publication, and distribution of public opinion polling information.

The Rasmussen Reports Election Edge™ Premium Service offers the most comprehensive public opinion coverage available anywhere.

Scott Rasmussen, president of Rasmussen Reports, has been an independent pollster for more than a decade.

Survey of 1,000 Adults
September 20-21, 2006

Should the Pope apologize for his comments?

Yes

25%

No

48%

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