Drones are often a controversial issue, but little research has been done on how the average person feels about them. As they continue to proliferate, this data looks at how the American public feels about their presence.
Keep in mind that the sentiments in this survey may not reflect the actual laws regarding drone use. Pew Research conducted the survey on both drone ownership and feelings toward them; here are some of the most interesting results:
- As of the middle of 2017, 8 percent of Americans own a drone, while 59 percent have seen one being used.
- 11 percent of men own a drone vs. 6 percent of women.
- 12 percent of people aged 18 to 49 own one vs. 4 percent of those 50 or older.
- When asked how they would feel seeing a drone flying near where they live, 58 percent said they would be curious, while about 12 percent said they would be angry or scared.
- Similarly, 54 percent think drones should not be allowed to fly near homes, with 34 percent saying it's ok in select circumstances, and 11 percent saying it should always be allowed.
- In contrast, in public parks, 44 percent say it should be allowed, 32 percent say it should not, and 31 percent say it depends on the circumstances.
- In general, older Americans were more disapproving of drones and wanted tighter regulations.
As the devices become more commonplace, it remains to be seen if they'll gain more acceptance and if and how their permissible uses might clash with public opinion. Head over to UAVUS to read the full report.
[via UAVUS]
If people (drone owners) used just a little bit of common sense, there would hardly ever be any issues, just mechanical failures if any which are rare without some form of intervention.
With the number of drone owners and how few issues we hear about, I think it's safe to say that the vast majority actually are responsible drone owners :)
Interesting stats, I want to see what the government really thinks of them lol
As drones become more affordable and everyone become familiar with them or even has one... the fear or intolerance swings to acceptance.
In the safety department, cars kill's million every year and no one wants to ban them.
And in the ethics department, old people are more resistant to change but the generations that grow up with drones in his environment, they simply have another ethics boundaries. For them is normal that they can be seen or filmed in every place imaginary. They simply don't know the benefits or faults of anonymity because they didn't have it. And guess what... Nothing happens. Society doesn't fall into anarchy like some think. At least for now :D