For teenagers, it can be difficult to decide what to believe. The cause of much strife and conflict in the world is beliefs- and by taking a side, whether it be morally, religiously, or politically, you can throw yourself right into some of the fights between people with differing perspectives. The shift from child to adult involves making your own choices- which may sound exciting at first, but leads to tough decisions. It seems that a student’s parents have the biggest influence on their beliefs. While uncommon to see someone with completely contrasting views against their parents’, this family relationship leads to wonder on why this happens.

There is also the question of to what extent our beliefs would differ if we were born into another family and life. It seems that humans’ ideas are easily moldable, but once someone starts to truly believe something, they aren’t often deterred. A parent, however, can send their child in the opposite direction if beliefs are too strong.

An anonymous student at Boise High had a lot to say over the matter. The student said (completely seriously), “My mom specifically has tried to convert me many times… she pushes things on me a lot. She talks about the illuminati… and thinks Obama’s wife [Michelle] is a man. She has really influenced me to argue with her, and I think my debating skills have gotten better.” How strange it is that a teenager can have such different views from their parents. Boise High is also an influential factor because of its education and the more common beliefs of its population.

At Boise High, most of the student population leans towards a liberal viewpoint. This inevitably leads to certain oppressions for students who have different ideas. While it may seem rare, those who lean toward conservative political views often feel targeted at Boise High.

JRF.org claims, “Most parents saw religion as a way of life that was transmitted between generations. They considered it part of their parenting responsibility to pass on their faith.” This generation of teenagers has a more critical viewpoint of religion, but most understand that it is an important part of heritage and who you are (add quote).

One odd part of high school social life is that a student won’t often challenge another who follows a different religion, but engages in arguments with others who identify with opposing political parties. This can also be a double standard at times. It is not easy to know where to draw the line between politics and religion, but where students draw the line on judging others for their beliefs is interesting indeed.

Walker Morales stated, “At Boise High, being oppressed depends on the class…because if they say anything anything that’s on their mind, they’ll be silenced by the rest of the class, and told they’re an idiot, racist, or bigot. Happened to me a few times.”

What’s important is to respect all people’s views- no matter how different they are from yours. Remember that they are just a person, too- and probably feel exactly like you do in their own way. Boise High students are fortunate to have access to so many differing cultures and beliefs, so go forth with an open mind!