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POLCC 512 Notes
Politics and Society
POLITICAL SOCIALIZATION
It is well said, ‘citizens are not born, but created’. From womb to the tomb, socialization is the continuous process of learning irrespective of any divide-class, caste or gender. The outcome of the process is varied as it is affected by variables viz. environment, education and personality traits. The pre-dominance of any one variable creates a new personality. Thus, each one is a product of ongoing socialization (learning process). However, its impact also differs with the change in the nature of political system, say that of authoritative as contrasted with democratic system. Political socialization is a concept concerning the ‘study of the developmental processes by which children and adolescents acquire political cognition, attitudes and behaviours’. It refers to a learning process by which norms and behaviour acceptable to a well running political system are transmitted from one generation to another. It is through the performance of this function that individuals are inducted into the political culture and their orientations towards political objects are formed.
POPULAR DEFINITIONS
● Rush and Althoff describe it as 'the process, by which an individual becomes acquainted with the political system, and which determines his perception of politics and his reactions to political phenomena. ’ ● Easton and Dennis define it as 'those developing processes through which persons acquire political orientations and pattern of behaviour .’
CHARACTERISTICS OF POLITICAL SOCIALISATION
- Political socialization is the pinnacle of a society’s political values or culture.
- The purpose of political socialization is to educate and enhance the members of the society politically, to see them become effective members of the political society, and to preserve the continuity of the political values of the society.
- Early childhood is an important time for political socialization. But this is not limited to a few years of childhood. Political socialization continues throughout the life of the individual.
- It occurs mainly in three ways – imitation, instruction, and motivation. Imitation tendency is more prevalent in children, whereas adolescents and adults have a combination of imitation, instruction, and motivation.
- Through the process of political socialization, the increase in support, support for the prevailing political system, the values in favor of conventional institutions, and the legitimacy of the government are increased.
- All persons belonging to a political society are subject to political socialization
and are effective throughout their lives.
STAGES OF POLITICAL SOCIALIZATION
● Early Childhood ○ Basic awareness of authority and societal rules is developed. ○ Family plays a crucial role in forming initial political impressions. ● Late Childhood ○ Schools begin formal education on government and citizenship. ○ Peer interactions become more influential. ● Adolescence ○ Increased exposure to diverse viewpoints through media and education. ○ Development of personal political beliefs and ideologies. ● Young Adulthood ○ Higher education and early career experiences further shape political views. ○ Active participation in political activities, such as voting, often begins. ● Adulthood ○ Life experiences, such as marriage and parenthood, can influence political priorities.
● The socioeconomic status of a family influences the political engagement and perspectives of children. Affluent families tend to have children who are more politically knowledgeable and active
2. School- ● Schools introduce students to the fundamentals of government and politics through civics and history classes. This formal education provides the foundational knowledge necessary for political participation. ● Participation in student government and other school activities can foster political engagement and leadership skills ● Schools also provide a social environment where peer interactions contribute to political socialization, reinforcing or challenging individual political views 3. Peer Groups ● Peer groups play a crucial role in shaping political attitudes, especially during adolescence. Young people often adopt the political norms and values of their friends to gain acceptance. ● Peer groups formed around shared interests, such as sports teams or clubs, can also serve as platforms for political discussion and engagement. 4. Mass Media ● Mass media, including television, newspapers, and social media, are significant sources of information about political events, policies, and leaders. They help shape public opinion and political knowledge ● The way media outlets frame political issues and set agendas can influence individuals' perceptions and priorities regarding political matters 5. Workplace ● The workplace provides opportunities for political discussions among colleagues, which can influence individuals' political views and behaviors ● Participation in professional organizations and unions can also be a source of political socialization, often advocating for policies beneficial to their members. 6. Religious Institutions ● Religious institutions impart moral and ethical values that can influence political beliefs and behaviors. Religious teachings often address social and political issues, guiding followers' political perspectives ● Religious communities can mobilize political participation through collective activities such as voting drives and advocacy campaigns. 7. Direct contact with the Political System
● Individual interactions with the political system shape their attitudes. Positive experiences foster positive orientations, while negative experiences lead to disdain or indifference. ● Issues like unemployment, government harassment, and bureaucratic obstacles (e.g., obtaining a passport or driving license) contribute to negative attitudes. ● Negative experiences can drive individuals to migrate to developed countries. ● Encounters with police, judiciary, and political leaders also influence political orientations.
8. Caste ● In developing countries, caste is a significant but divisive agent of political socialization. ● People of the same caste often unite to gain political benefits, often using negative tactics. ● Caste-based vote-bank strategies are common but harmful to the political system in the long run. 9. National Symbol ● The Constitution, National Flag, and National Anthem symbolize the legality and authority of the political system. ● Singing the national anthem or participating in national ceremonies instills loyalty and pride. ● These symbols reinforce both legal and emotional bonds with the political system. ● Events like the Republic Day Parade and the President’s address instill national pride and connect the past with the present. By Khushi Raj , Graduating from Patna Women's College (autonomous), Patna University, Department of Political Science.
