Poll Finds Americans Name People as Best Aspect of U.S. Life

A CBS News poll released this week asked U.S. adults to identify the best thing about the American way of life. Respondents placed "the people" first, ahead of land and resources, the economic system, and the system of government. The same survey asked participants in their own words to name America's greatest invention.

Freedom and democracy received the most mentions. Among specific items, the light bulb and lighting led the list, followed by the internet.

Other frequently cited inventions included the automobile, telephone, and airplane. When presented with a list of foods, respondents selected hamburgers as most representative of the United States, ahead of barbecue, apple pie, and hot dogs.

Just over half of those surveyed said they are at least somewhat excited about the upcoming America 250 events marking 250 years since the nation's founding. Half said they plan to fly the American flag on the Fourth of July. Those expressing greater excitement about the anniversary were more likely to say they will display the flag.

The CBS News/YouGov survey used a nationally representative sample of 2,150 adults interviewed between June 23-26, 2026. Results were weighted by gender, age, race, education, and 2024 presidential vote, with a margin of error of plus or minus 2.7 percentage points.