The East German Communist Party is involved in a campaign to turn students away from their Christian heritage by denying higher education to youths who do not hold politically "correct" views. Peter Gottfried is a 15-year-old pastor's son who hopes to enter a music conservatory, but before he can be accepted, he must answer seven questions, the last of which asks him to name the major influence on his social development. Aware that he must deny his religious beliefs, the boy turns to those around him for advice. His teacher encourages him to make the "right" decision, but his girl friend, Anneliese, and his father urge him to stand by his principles. When the Party gives him an opportunity to participate in the annual Berlin Youth Festival, Peter accepts despite the protests of his father. Once in Berlin, Peter realizes that he is merely a pawn being used by the Party to refute charges that religious youth are denied opportunity under Communism. He flees from the festival and takes refuge in the West.