On the bottom of p. 132, when Pony asks what kind of a world it is, why is this questioning important to Pony's character development?

This specific section of text illustrates Ponyboy's growth and maturity. He sees where he is and notes how simple it would be to go in the wrong direction. Ponyboy doesn't want to be a hood, he doesn't want the reputation that will follow hin through his life if her doesn't turn it all around. He wants to do and become something he can be proud of.

when pb asks what kind of a world it is why is it this question important to his character development