The idea of one shared past, can develop identity-building potential. Nevertheless, there are diverse memory practices in plural societies and they are an expression of shared, divided, and conflicting memories. The negotiations of (diverse) past(s) and memories and, consequently, related belonging(s) to so-called 'remembrance communities' take…

How the political literacy of an individual may be promoted is a controversial issue. An undeniable fact is that the agencies of socialization structuring political learning have to be understood in their historical context. The didactic discussion in Germany during the second half of the 20th century comprises a whole range of issues which are…

Argues that stability and continuity have been the primary characteristics of German political parties since World War II. Points out that even with reunification the German political party system has experienced little change. Contends that the response of the political parties to the continued impact of reunification largely will determine the…

Maintains that research on political socialization began in the late 1950s and died a premature death in the 1970s. Discusses the field's origins and downfall, and predicts a rebirth in a new and sustainable form. Outlines changes in secondary school political science education and political socialization research in other nations. (CFR)