ABSTRACT
This chapter presents the results of a Polish study conducted by the author between late November and early December 1989 within the broad framework of the "World Value Survey." The survey encompassed several countries on different continents. The international study was completed in November and December 1989 with a random national sample of 938 people. In Western Europe, there was an increase in economic, political, and cultural cooperation; whereas in Eastern Europe, the scope and type of cooperation was Soviet-directed. Two prominent characteristics of Polish political life were systematic upheaval and cyclical crises. Studies carried out in the US and in Western Europe demonstrated that all nations have a differentiated attitude toward other nations. In Poland, both the 1980 outburst of dissatisfaction and the creation of "Solidarity" were associated with articulating Polish aspirations and protesting against the existing system, under the banner of national unity. Future relationships based on partnership, freedom of choice, and cooperation may bridge mistrust and hostility between countries.
