In 2021, The Economist called Taiwan "the most dangerous place on earth." But how do the Taiwanese people see the world around them? Despite living under daily coercion and the constant threat of invasion, most simply strive to get on with their lives.

Surveys help unpack public sentiment and offer insights into what it means to be Taiwanese today. While a significant portion of the population favors maintaining the status quo, there is growing support for eventual independence. Most Taiwanese are concerned about the possibility of war, identify as Taiwanese rather than Chinese, and a majority express willingness to defend their country if necessary. Taken together, the surveys below portray a society that strongly aspires to a distinct national identity, values stability, and remains deeply concerned about its future security.