ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the socialization influences that helped shape the beliefs which set persistere on a course toward peace action. The evolution appears to be a gradual weaving together of socialization influences, social affiliations, and the uniqueness of the historical moment, social criticism, and opportunities for action. On the personal level, certain beliefs need to develop over an individual's lifetime which establishes the moral basis for peace action. Developing those beliefs is an essential step for continuing as a peace activist, even in the face of serious setbacks and discouraging national and international news. Beliefs are essentially of two types: Those about what is and those about what should be. Beliefs are created by groups in order to establish an orientation to other groups in the social world, to develop goals and courses of action, to respond to threat, to carry on the life of community, and to find a place in the cosmos.
