About the IOOW-2000 Research

In Our Own Words 2000 (IOOW-2000) is a three-year landmark research project originally commissioned by the Foundation for Global Awakening and Fund For Global Awakening to explore the state of social and spiritual consciousness of Americans. At the turn of the millennium, over 1,600 U.S. households were systematically interviewed across America, for a representative combination of age and gender selected by each of the twelve Census divisions.

The IOOW-2000 research identified positive commonalities among groups that can be used to help stimulate positive social change and greater awareness of innate spirituality on a societal scale. It has yielded rich typologies and valuable conceptual maps showing greater connection than may be apparent among the many diverse tendencies in American society.

Its innovative typologies are a major contribution of the IOOW-2000 study to social research. These provide a valuable tool with which organizations, institutions, businesses, and policy and opinion makers can develop strategies informed by a profound understanding of current American values and aspirations. Its analysis of The 8 American Types offers startling insight into our society and indicates new strategies for a positive future.

The landmark research undertaken by IOOW-2000 suggests many ways in which our society may be approaching a turning point in its development. An ever-increasing proportion of the population is embracing a more encompassing understanding of themselves, a deeper spiritual awareness, a universal connectedness, and a belief in working toward a greater common good. IOOW-2000 examines key values, attitudes, and beliefs concerning forgiveness and tolerance, ethics and leadership, compassion and service, expectations for the next decade, technology, media, healthcare, and other vital contemporary concerns. The study identifies key areas of strategic importance to all of American society and to individuals in positions of leadership in all sectors.