Half of Britain believes the planet is in a moral and physical decline, according to a new survey.
Britons believe that the biggest threat to the planet is global warming, with 23% questioned fearing it more than the other issues.
But terrorism, closely followed by war, are the biggest fears of today's international society, and half those surveyed worldwide believe the planet is becoming a worse place to live.
Natural disasters such as flooding also keep people in Britain awake at night, according to the results.
Commissioned by the Wall Street Journal Europe, the survey covered 18 countries worldwide, with over 1000 people asked in 15 of the 18 states.
Greeks, with 74%, top the poll for having the most pessimistic view of society.
The mood is more upbeat within the emerging markets with more than half of Indians having an optimistic outlook for the future.
The poll also reveals, however, that people are attempting to improve society with Britons and Italians (14%) the most likely to undertake charity work to help those less fortunate than themselves, compared to only 4% of the French.
When questioned how to improve society, only 14% of British people believe cleaning up the environment is important compared to the Greeks again who lead the way with 39%.
The poll shows that people are far more positive about their relationships with family and friends, with 32% of Britons citing strong relationships as a reason to feel positive about the future while 48% would talk to their friends and family about their personal fears.
