The Formation and Transformation of Poles’ Mentality after 1989: An Analysis from the Perspective of Social Philosophy

Abstract

The subject of article is transformation as a multilevel social phenomenon, experience of transformation and modernization of Polish society (in the period from 1989 to the present day, including the turning point of the reforms in 1999 and the context of Poland's membership in NATO and the EU) and changes in its mental characteristics. Mental qualities play one of the most important roles in the processes of social transformation: they have their share in shaping the perception and implementation of attitudes, correspond to values, established norms of behavior. At the same time, they can significantly complicate the rapid mastery of innovation (both consciously and subconsciously), because one of the main functions of mentality is to counteract violent revolutionary-reformist transformations and to promote paths of evolutionary cultural, social and other changes. The study of mental features should clarify which of them were helpful, and which rather the opposite – hindered at the stage of reforms and social changes and the creation of civil society. These considerations are based on the assumption that destructive mental traits are mainly associated with many years of subjecting Poland to the power of other countries, especially the Soviet Union, which led to negative state experiences, which in turn translates into a lack of liberal traditions and a low level of civic awareness of society. A very important task that Polish society faces is abandoning outdated Soviet behavior, increasing the level of responsibility and activity, mutual trust and cooperation, developing social activity, strengthening civil society, which is the engine of change and the controller of local and state self-government.