How was Jem Finch shaped and influenced by his society in To Kill a Mockingbird?

Jem is profoundly affected by his community in To Kill a Mockingbird. Let me give you two examples. 

First, in the beginning of the novel, Jem's views on Boo Radley come from the prevailing negative views of Maycomb, combined with his childlike imagination.  Therefore, the first part of the book contains a fascination of Boo.  Jem along with Scout and Dill want to see Boo.  Fortunately, Jem has someone like Miss Maudie to talk some...

Jem is profoundly affected by his community in To Kill a Mockingbird. Let me give you two examples. 

First, in the beginning of the novel, Jem's views on Boo Radley come from the prevailing negative views of Maycomb, combined with his childlike imagination.  Therefore, the first part of the book contains a fascination of Boo.  Jem along with Scout and Dill want to see Boo.  Fortunately, Jem has someone like Miss Maudie to talk some sense into him, even about Boo. But the point is that his community gives him a view of Boo or influences him. 

Second and more importantly, when the trial of Tom Robinson begins, Jem is there.  In other words, he witnesses the proceedings first hand.  He is also present when a mob comes to harm Tom.  In fact, the mob almost also harmed his father, Atticus.  So, he sees the blind hatred in the town.  

At the end of the case, when the jurors are deliberating, he believes that Atticus put forth a brilliant defense of Tom, which would ensure a verdict of innocent, but he is mistaken.  This point shows how deep the injustices are in society.  He weeps and says it is not fair. So, we can say that he sees the brokenness of his town and experiences it.  

Jem is very fortunately though.  He has trusted guides like his father and Miss Maudie.  So, while these events touch and influence him, he has another way at looking at things.  He can stand against society and be brave.  In this sense, a few key people influence him most profoundly.