Searches for connections between socialization and change. Suggests that the views of Marx and Weber are more helpful to understanding the origins of political socialization and change than the three explanations currently in the literature, that is, explanations based on uncommon people, dissident subcultures, or changing generations. (Author/JM)

Using data collected from a random sample of students at a large Eastern university, the relationship of various socio-political factors to students attitudes toward and participation in protest activity is explored. Specifically addressed is the question - Do such factors influence activist-prone youth or youth who may be drawn into protest…

IN 1970, ability tracking of students at one high school was more strongly associated with political beliefs and participation than was students' socioeconomic background. Participation in an alternative school program in 1979 appeared to have the same effects on political attitudes and behavior than ability tracking did in 1970. (Author/MJL)