in peer groups reinforce beliefs. Elisabeth Noelle-Neumann, in her book Spiral of Silence, explains individuals inherently fear social isolation from peers and are apprehensive of speaking out against group ideas (Patterson 161). Religion appeals to one’s sense of affective socialization by encouraging puritan values and morals supported by the church. The highly inviolable issue of abortion parleys condemnation by the Catholic Church against the advocating for women’s rights by pro-choice groups. Catholics, while the strongest advocates, do not stand alone on this issue, as many religions preach abortion is the murder of a child. By relating a medical procedure to murder, people are emotionally affected, and instead of thinking rationally, resort to emotions to defend their stance. Schools are another important faction in delivering affective socialization, but also deliver instrumental socialization to America’s youth. Elementary classroom instruction is generally where children receive their first concrete lessons on the American political system. Teachers perform the important civic duty of instructing young Americans in political history, general laws and rights, and patriotism. Take for example the Pledge of Allegiance, recited across the nation in elementary classrooms. Day-in and day-out, children are ingrained with a patriotic message of love and respect for the United States of America. Manifest socialization is direct and clearly demonstrated. Media plays a key role here, with straightforward ads and commercials. These ads state specific things and leave little open to interpretation. For example, commercials for the National Rifle Association stress owning a gun is a fundamental right guaranteed to Americans by the Constitution of the United States. Thousands of newspapers, television news, advertisements, and Internet access all bombard people with messages daily. Generally, mainstream medi...
