Political Socialization
Everyone is politically socialized. There is not a student in this class who is not politically socialized. What is political socialization? The topic is covered in Chapter 6.
Political socialization describes the process by which you came to form your views about the government and political system you live under. Everyone is politically socialized whether one knows it or not. Everyone's views about the government did not develop in a vacuum, and you were not innately bor with those views. A person's views on the government that he or she lives under were formed by what has been identified as agents of political socialization.
So, what are the agents of political socialization?
FAMILY
SCHOOL
MEDIA
PEERS
RELIGIOUS BELIEFS
Those are the main agents of political socialization. Those agents affect people in varying degrees starting when they are incredibly young. Is everyone politically socialized the same way? Of course not. Is any one of those listed agents more important than any other? That depends on the individual.
The views that you hold about the American political system did not form when you woke up this morning. Through the listed agents, and other agents or factors, you have come to form your views throughout your lifetimes. Are you more liberal or conservative? What huge events stand out in your lifetimes, such as the JFK
Assassination, 9/11, the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, the election of Barack Obama, any other presidential election, Hurricane Katrina, Princess Diana's car crash, The Great Recession, the Global Covid-19 Pandemic, or any others that affected your views about politics? Which of the two major political parties do you favor? Do you vote and participate politically?
Suppose you say, "Ah I hate the government, all politicians are liars and crooks, and I think voting is a waste of time." Would you be able to then say that you are not politically socialized? Of course not. If you were to make those statements, you would be saying a mouthful about how you are politically socialized. It is through one or all the listed factors that you came to form your negative views.
What you will do with this short essay is simply describe how you have become politically socialized throughout your lifetime. How have these agents of political socialization affected you? There are no right or wrong answers here, there is no one-size-fits-all, as everyone in this class is going to have a unique experience. You simply need to write about them in a length of about no more than three pages here.
The Process of Political Socialization
Political socialization is a fundamental aspect of our lives that shapes our views and beliefs about the government and the political system we live in. It is an ongoing process that occurs throughout our lifetimes, influenced by various agents such as family, school, media, peers, and religious beliefs. In this essay, I will explore how these agents of political socialization have affected my own views and perspectives on politics.
Family
One of the most influential agents of political socialization is the family. From a young age, we observe and absorb the political beliefs and values of our parents and other family members. Growing up in a household where open discussions about politics were encouraged, I was exposed to a range of perspectives and ideologies. My parents often engaged in political debates, which taught me the importance of critically analyzing different viewpoints and forming my own opinions. Their emphasis on civic engagement and the value of voting instilled in me a sense of responsibility towards participating in the political process.
School
Another crucial agent of political socialization is the educational system. Schools play a significant role in shaping our understanding of civics, governance, and the political landscape. Through social studies classes, I learned about the democratic principles upon which our nation was founded and the rights and responsibilities of citizens. Teachers exposed me to historical events, such as the Civil Rights Movement and the Watergate scandal, which highlighted the power dynamics and complexities of our political system. Moreover, extracurricular activities like Model United Nations and student government provided opportunities for active engagement and practical application of political knowledge.
Media
In today’s digital age, the media has a profound influence on our political socialization. Whether through television, newspapers, or social media platforms, we are constantly bombarded with information and opinions about politics. Media outlets shape public discourse by framing issues, promoting certain narratives, and influencing public opinion. Growing up, I was exposed to a diverse range of news sources and made a conscious effort to consume information from multiple perspectives. This allowed me to develop a critical eye and discernment when evaluating political news and analysis.
Peers
Peer groups also play a significant role in shaping political attitudes. As we grow older, our interactions with friends and peers expose us to different perspectives and ideologies. Engaging in political discussions and debates with peers has expanded my understanding of various viewpoints and challenged my own beliefs. Through these interactions, I have learned to respect differing opinions and appreciate the importance of constructive dialogue in a democratic society.
Religious Beliefs
Religion can also act as an agent of political socialization. Religious institutions often address social and moral issues that intersect with politics. Growing up in a religious household, I was exposed to teachings that emphasized concepts of justice, compassion, and equality. These principles influenced my political beliefs, particularly regarding social justice issues and the role of government in promoting the common good.
Conclusion
In conclusion, political socialization is a lifelong process influenced by various agents such as family, school, media, peers, and religious beliefs. Each of these agents has played a role in shaping my political views and perspectives. Through my family’s discussions, my education in school, exposure to diverse media sources, interactions with peers, and the moral teachings of my religious beliefs, I have developed a nuanced understanding of politics and civic engagement. It is through this ongoing process of political socialization that I continue to refine and evolve my political beliefs, recognizing the importance of active participation in shaping our democratic society.