The answers were compared with official records. A recent survey asked University of Maryland graduates various questions about their college experience. But, while what’s embarrassing or desirable may have changed, people’s tendency to deceive pollsters remains strong. Has anything changed in 65 years? In the age of the internet, not owning a library card is no longer embarrassing. The word 'gay' is 10% more likely to complete searches that begin 'Is my husband.' than the word 'cheating' Even though nobody gave their names, people, in large numbers, exaggerated their voter registration status, voting behaviour, and charitable giving. What the residents reported to the surveys was very different from the data the researchers had gathered. They then surveyed the residents to see if the percentages would match. Researchers collected data, from official sources, on the residents of Denver: what percentage of them voted, gave to charity, and owned a library card. An important paper in 1950 provided powerful evidence of how surveys can fall victim to such bias. They want to look good, even though most surveys are anonymous. Many people underreport embarrassing behaviours and thoughts on surveys. Have you ever fantasised about killing someone?
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