The MTV/AP results do not state how the participants were acquired, although it does note that the qualitative portion “included extensive field research with small discussion groups in diverse American cities around the country.” Merely from a common sense standpoint, you can see why this approach might lend itself to more positive, optimistic results than being harassed over the phone.

So, who to believe? Is America moving left? Are young Americans moving right?

The short answer is both.

Perhaps, as the Pew Research shows, the country has shifted gradually left in some ways. It is important to note, though, that many of the shifts occurred within ten percent, an unimpressive range over two decades. Look at the charts yourself; none of the images reflect drastic changes.

And even where there were some shifts left, there is still good news. According to Pew, 76 percent of Americans still have “old fashioned values about family and marriage” and nearly half of America still considers prayer an important part of their daily life. Things could be worse, right? Pair that with the new MTV/AP results, and there’s no reason to be alarmed about the future of America.

Since the midterm elections last fall, conservatives have longed to be inspired. Many Republicans are standing on the sidelines of the 2008 campaigns, waiting to rally around someone they believe in and believe can win. If a GOP campaign does not act fast, the happy and optimistic youth may be led astray by the empty and unrealistic promises of the Left. If, on the other hand, Republicans can engage America’s prayerful, optimistic, and grateful youth and finally show them that their vote matters, the political landscape in America will change drastically.

For more information, please refer to the following resources:

1.) Pew Research Center: Trends in Political Values and Core Attitudes: 1987-2007

Summary of Findings and Full Report (PDF)

2.) Associated Press-MTV: Youth Happiness Study

Summary of Findings and Full Report (PDF)