85% of Britons continue to believe that Britain is divided as over half think differences in people’s political views are so divisive that it is dangerous for society
Recent findings from Ipsos indicate that four in five British adults continue perceive the nation as divided. Over half (55%) perceive differences in people’s political views as so divisive that it is dangerous to society.
Key findings
- Persistent perception of division: Over eight in ten (85%) Britons believe British society is divided. This perception has largely remained consistent since 2018, underscoring a long-term concern about national unity.
- Political polarisation as societal threat: Over half of those surveyed (55%) regard the differences in political views as potentially harmful to society, a slight increase from 51% in August 2024.
- Perceptions of those with opposing views: Half (52%) of Britons think that people with opposing political views don’t care about people like them. 65% believe that those with opposing views are unlikely to change their opinion, while 48% believe their views are politically extreme.
- Concern over violence and extremism: When asked what they are most concerned about, Britons are most likely to say the state of the British economy (88%) and the state of public services (86%). Around three in four are concerned about the rise in small boat crossings (76%) and the state of democracy (75%). Moreover, fears about different forms of extremism—religious (74%), right-wing (65%), and left-wing (61%)—remain prevalent.
- Challenges in social cohesion: 79% express apprehension about Britons resorting to violence instead of coming together to peacefully resolve disagreements. There is also notable concern about violence targeting individuals based on ethnicity (74%), immigration status (69%), gender (69%), or political beliefs (66%), but also worries about Britons not being able to protest about their legitimate concerns (70%).
Commenting on the findings, Gideon Skinner, Senior UK Director of Politics at Ipsos said:
The continued perception of division among Britons is underscored by a growing belief that the country’s political differences are becoming so polarised as to be potentially dangerous. This is a view held across the political spectrum, and it’s also a concern that there doesn’t seem to be much empathy for those with opposing political views – tackling this will be key to trying to build a situation where political differences can be expressed more healthily.
Technical note:
- Ipsos interviewed a representative sample of 1,095 adults aged 16-75 across Great Britain. Polling was conducted online between 19-22 September 2025.
- Data are weighted to match the profile of the population. All polls are subject to a wide range of potential sources of error.
