Helmut Melzer
The theory of the "quiet revolution" of US political scientist Ronald Inglehart, a positive change of values in society, is quickly explained: If a society can reach a certain prosperity, it turns away from "materialistic needs" to "post-materialistic needs". Self-realization, participation in the state as well as freedom of expression and tolerance come to the fore.
Of course, not everybody wants to believe that. "Everything used to be better," a well-known friend and perpetual skeptic recently said in a rather heated discussion. "When?" I asked: "Before the economic crisis? Last century? Back then, in the cave? "
It is clear that just in the last few decades, the world has changed slowly, but for the better. You can see for yourself in this issue of Option. With all further problems, it goes ahead.
Quite simply, Inglehart's calculation does not work out. The decisive factor of a high level of education, which, in my view, only allows a change in values, is indeed implied in social prosperity, but is by no means guaranteed - for example in Austria: 18 ranked in the EU academic quota. Feeling 30 years of discussion about a school and education reform. This slows down every change in values, every positive development. Intention?
No question: The mills grind in Austria sometimes very slowly. "Those who have visions, should go to the doctor." - The famous quote by Helmut Schmidt is still considered by many to die for as a maxim to refuse any progress. That was 1980, today we are writing the year 2017. On the 15. October, we will elect the next National Council. He will also decide on important educational issues, as the next generation of Austrians will see the world. Choose progress, choose the future!
Photo / Video: Option.
