The latest survey results from the Barna Group:
Among the 11 religious leaders evaluated by adults, about eight out of every ten adults was aware of Mr. Graham, making him and Pat Robertson the only religious figures that were known to at least half of the population. With 64% holding a favorable impression of the world-renowned preacher, Mr. Graham was the sole religious leader who had made a positive impression on a majority of Americans. In total, 64% had a favorable impression of Mr. Graham, and 15% had a negative impression. The only other religious leader even known among a majority - Pat Robertson - had a more mixed public image, leaving a positive impression on 33% and a negative imprint on 25%.
The biggest story among the other nine religious figures tested is that so few people knew who they are. Some of the highest-profile leaders in the Christian community are virtually unknown to the population at-large, including Charles Colson (unknown to 85%), Rick Warren (unknown to 83%), Bill Hybels (unknown to 96%), and Andy Stanley (unknown to 95%).
George Barna draws this conclusion about the data:
“Recent studies have indicated that one of the most common goals among young Americans is to become famous. The wild popularity of reality TV shows and blogging are outgrowths of that urge. But let the buyer beware: fame is both a tough nut to crack, and an even tougher condition to master.After decades of public prominence, James Dobson is unknown to two out of three Americans. Although she has filled a trophy case with awards and graced the cover of numerous magazines and news reports, Patricia Heaton’s name is a mystery to three out of four adults. Rick Warren has sold more books than any other non-fiction title besides the Bible, but four out of five Americans have no idea who he is. Getting on top - and maintaining a positive image once you’re there - is incredibly difficult in a fickle culture like ours. Just ask Billy Graham. For some reason, one out of every five people who are aware of him have a negative impression of the leader.
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