<p>OK. Now that I know a little more, I’ll give you some extra info. I’ve found at the U of C a very clear difference between the socialist kids and the econ majors (yes, they tend not to be the same people). Most of the student body is socially liberal, as is the case with most colleges. I’d say a good 1/2 of students would identify as socialist to some degree. The econ majors tend to be more economically conservative, especially since the US has a capitalist system. A lot of the people I know who identify as socialists just have no interest in studying economics or considering capitalism. Professors of course have their own opinions, and it’s true that many of the professors would not consider themselves strictly of the Chicago School. Having said that, I’m not sure whether there are any econ profs here looking to elect some socialist candidate for President (I know you said this isn’t necessarily you; I’m just letting you know). </p>
<p>Jack pretty much nailed it, though: you don’t really make your own opinions at first. Before doing that, you have to learn. You’ll likely read The Wealth of Nations, tons of Marx (from manuscripts to the Manifesto), Weber, Rousseau, Harvey, and many others in your first quarter of sosc. Economics classes are, of course, more problem and textbook based.</p>