ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the impact of socialism on the current social consciousness. It outlines the problems of state programs which reinforce the old consciousness, instead of encouraging a new social consciousness more suited to a market economy. The chapter also discusses the dualism between felt and accepted values in the social consciousness, and the lack of information as obstacles to privatization. It explains that current legislative efforts and political rhetoric are actually undermining the transformation process. However, the preference for the familiar may be so strong that it stifles legal innovation. Privatization offers the possibility of spreading ownership across society and creating economic self-reliance, not just the creation of a capital market and an efficient economy. The citizens of the postcommunist societies must learn to take initiative, engage in risky behavior, and accept responsibility over their lives. The chapter concludes with a brief but optimistic observation on the potential for future change.
