Genesis of the Ukrainian political mentality

Abstract

The article examines the peculiarities of the genesis of the Ukrainian mentality, with special attention paid to the analysis of its political component. The factors of formation of the fundamental features: geographical location, natural and climatic conditions, specifics of the way of life; historical conditions of formation of archetypes, language, religion, identity; experience of foreign domination and popular resistance, national liberation struggle; prevailing cultural and political traditions, religion, etc are highlighted. Since ancient times Ukraine has been developing as part of European civilization, opposing Eastern despotism, and in its political tradition has historically tended to a democratic type of state, unlike the authoritarian model of Russia is emphasized. The unfavorable historical events, the long absence of statehood, and especially the devastating twentieth century for Ukraine, significantly damaged the genetic fund of the Ukrainian nation and deformed the fundamental mental attitudes is proved.
In order to survive, Ukrainians adapted, changed patterns of behavior, etc., which was reflected in the consciousness of Ukrainian society and its mentality, but no changes are constant and are gradually transformed in accordance with modern challenges and needs. Among the main constructive features of the Ukrainian political mentality are democracy, freedom-loving attitude and complete rejection of dictatorial practices; a tendency to self-organization and self-government; perseverance and unity in defending justice; individualism. The most influential destructive factors are: inferiority complex; excessive emotionality in political decision-making and weakness of the rational component; disunity of Ukrainian ethnic territories and, accordingly, society (West/East, language issue, different religious beliefs, etc.); a high level of tolerance for corruption and abuse of power; paternalism, orientation towards charismatic leaders, etc.