Navigating Political Influence: A Parent's Guide
As a parent, the moment your child shows interest in political figures can be both exciting and daunting. When I found out my 14-year-old son was watching Ben Shapiro, I initially felt a mix of unease and concern. However, as I considered the broader context of his exploration and the influence of political figures, I realized this was an opportunity to guide him rather than dictate.
Understanding Ben Shapiro
Ben Shapiro is a well-known figure in contemporary political commentary, known for his sharp wit and strong viewpoints, often aligned with Conservative and Libertarian ideologies. While it's true that figures like Ben Shapiro can set examples and sometimes influence young minds, it's crucial to understand that they can also inspire critical thinking and self-reflection.
No, I Don't Want My Son to Become a Narcissist
While Ben Shapiro might seem like a role model for some, it's essential to recognize that he may not suit everyone, including my son. I know Ben on a personal level, and I aim to help shape his political understanding. He might find that Shapiro's viewpoints don't align with his beliefs in the future, and that's perfectly fine. These formative years are crucial for developing his own identity and critical thinking skills.
Sitting in History: The Influence of My Parents
Reflecting on how my own political views evolved, it's clear that my parents, who were Roosevelt Democrats during the Great Depression and World War II, played a significant role. My father, born in 1923, and my mother, born in 1927, instilled in me a deep appreciation for the challenges faced by our predecessors. This historical context deeply influenced my early exposure to political theory and my subsequent libertarian-leaning conservative perspective.
Introduction to Political Theory
Suspending my naivety as a teenager, I enrolled in a course on Political Theory (PSc 104) during my first year of college. Taught by Dr. Ganzel, this course exposed me to the full spectrum of political ideologies, which greatly impacted my eventual political identity. Initially, to my parents' dismay, I found myself aligning with libertarian and conservative views, largely due to my distrust of big government. Even when my father didn't agree with the President, he still trusted the government to do the right thing. However, my own views evolved, thanks to the diverse array of perspectives presented in that course.
Ways to Guide Your Son Through Politics
Exploring Political Viewpoints
Your son, just like my son, is likely exploring different political viewpoints. Ben Shapiro, with his intelligence, education, and entertaining style, can be a positive influence. However, he might also be better off exploring other figures like Alex Jones, although we need to be cautious with his content.
Engaging and Encouraging Dialogue
Engage with your son and see if he is forming his own opinions. If he can, that's fantastic. You've successfuly raised a child who can think for himself and reason. If not, help him explore the full spectrum of political thought. Encourage him to consider all viewpoints. He may end up agreeing with you, but he'll still be your son and much more interesting to talk to.
Your Role as a Parent
My 48-year-old son often engages in lively, though sometimes contentious, political discussions with me, a few steps to the right of Attila the Hun. The mere fact that he questions and debates is what makes him more engaging and entertaining. It's important to remember that politics is just one aspect of life, and we can choose to largely ignore it. There's no "Flight 93 election," and government employees, most of them, are not budding authoritarians. They simply seek to make their jobs easier, and the G (government) rolls on regardless of administration changes, except in certain circumstances.
Ultimately, your role as a parent is to guide and encourage your child in developing critical thinking skills. Be prepared for lively discussions and be open to hearing different perspectives from your son. Encourage him to explore and form his own views, and above all, embrace the process as a learning opportunity for both of you.