Education as a Source of Control

Abstract

This chapter examines the role of education in political socialization – particularly whether people politically socialized under communism truly understand democracy and its principles. Education policy in the Czech Republic and Hungary is examined, along with how the education system worked under communism. Specific attention is paid to how socioeconomics and party loyalty affected people's educational opportunities. The role of more informal education such as participation in the pioneers program is also examined. It is concluded that civic education is vital for a country to be a fully functioning democracy.