Shared Values of Polish People: A Cultural Insight

Polish people are known for their strong character, honesty, and a deep respect for individuality. They value personal freedom, integrity, and peaceful living, embodying the essence of European values that are highly sought after around the world. This article explores the core values that Polish people share, based on cultural beliefs, social behaviors, and contemporary surveys.

Introduction

Polish people have always been proud of their heritage and the values they hold dear. From their love for freedom and peace to their strong sense of individualism and respect for personal space, Polish culture is rich and deeply rooted in high moral standards. Here, we delve into the values that most Polish people share, drawing from historical traditions and modern surveys.

Main Values

Individualism

Poles regard individualism highly and often emphasizes the importance of each person's right to express their unique opinion and identity. This belief emerged during times of forced uniformization under totalitarian regimes from 1945 to 1989. Today, Poles take pride in their individuality, valuing the uniqueness of each person and seeing it as a fundamental right.

Devotion

Polish people are deeply devoted to their principles and causes. When they commit to something, they are willing to go the extra mile to ensure its success. This devotion can be seen in both personal and professional life, especially when it comes to business and defending their hometowns.

Fairness

Justice and harmony are central to Polish culture. Many proverbs and legends reflect the importance of fairness and balance in society. For instance, the legend of the Devil’s Paw in Lublin portrays the idea of justice, where even supernatural forces are held accountable for their actions.

Modern Surveys

To better understand the contemporary values of Polish people, we can refer to a 2013 survey conducted by the Polish Centre for Public Opinion Research (CBOS). The survey involved 1,005 participants and revealed the top five values that Polish people share:

Family well-being/happiness - 82% Good health - 74% Living an honest/decent life - 26% Professional work/work well-being - 21% Peaceful and quiet life - 19%

However, it's important to note that the emphasis on honesty and integrity has notably decreased over time, perhaps reflecting broader societal changes.

Behaviors Considered Morally Wrong

According to the same survey, the behaviors most strongly considered morally wrong by Poles are:

Taking bribes Employer abuse in the workplace (financial abuse) Giving bribes Child abuse Abuse of authority in the workplace Cheating on a spouse

Some debated behaviors include divorce and living with someone without marriage (concubinage), which show a mixed public opinion, with around 50% of respondents either in favor or against these practices.

Additional Cultural Values

Besides the values mentioned above, Poles also share a strong sense of inventiveness and creativity. Each Pole is seen as having a unique opinion, and the population is known for its diverse and independent thinking.

Poles also value expressiveness, which can sometimes lead to a lack of political correctness. This is a result of centuries of oppression, where the ability to express one's thoughts freely was severely limited. Today, this trait is celebrated as a fundamental right to say whatever one feels, even if it is politically incorrect.

Moreover, Poles place a high value on pluralism. While they are a homogeneous society, the brutal impact of WWII has made them wary of any significant ethnic or religious minorities. The current system of society does not support the expansion of other groups, as Poles are not willing to take responsibility for hosting them again in case of a new Shoah. However, they would still welcome anyone to support pluralism within the Polish context, using the Polish language as the default.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Polish people share a rich tapestry of values that are deeply intertwined with their history, culture, and daily lives. From individualism and devotion to fairness and expressiveness, Polish values reflect a commitment to personal freedom, integrity, and a peaceful way of life. Understanding these values can provide insight into the Polish mindset and society.

By embracing these values, Poles create a society that is both unique and inspiring, setting a high standard for others to aspire to.