Political Socialization

Chapter five discusses the agents of political socialization; explain which one has the greatest impact on you, which one has the least impact on you.

Both my parents are independents; and I used to identify myself as independent. However, I believe school was the political socialization agent that has had the greatest impact in my judgments and decisions related to politics. This process began in my country, Venezuela, there I learned about world and Venezuelan history, patriotism, symbols, basic institutions and values of politics in school.

I was always taught to stand for my principles and beliefs. Therefore, from seven to twelve grades I got involved with my schools' Student Government Group. At that time, I was able to make a difference in issues related to students and staff interests; I also made a difference in the community by organizing conservationist campaigns, good neighbor activities, and beautification of our city projects, to mention some. Most of the time I felt that I was not bonded to any of the country's political parties, but shortly after entering college I began to work and there were the opportunities for involvement within the system.

Unfortunately, my country's political situation started to deteriorate with the intended of a military take over. Later on, it was totally crushed with the actual Presidential election of the perpetrator, current President, Hugo Chaves.

My trust and faith in a democracy were shattered until I decided to come to the US. Now, I appreciate and love this country very much for all the opportunities existing to me. I also feel that my opinions in American politics, ethics and other subjects are well-informed and once again school has marked and amplified them.

On the other hand, I believe that a person's knowledge of politics cannot simply come from their own personal experience or through the lessons learned from others directly. For