The prevailing beliefs in an ever-changing time
The shift in the Greek notion
The past few years can be considered a really turbulent period for Greece. On a national, economic, political, international level the changes and even challenges have been quite abundant. Taking this into consideration, it’s only natural to notice a shift in the beliefs and attitudes of Greeks, especially when a younger generation is starting to take over.
DiaNEOsis research, having been conducted in a span of 7 eventful years, sheds light on a noticeable behavioral shift especially after the economic crisis and reveal the new mentality and emotions of Greeks in a spectrum of topics, like immigrants, religion, relations with Europe. It’s always worth keeping in mind that there might be factors (language, comprehension) affecting the results of this sort of research, so DiaNEOsis tried to avoid that by covering a wide array of topics, feelings and ideas. A project of such range helps us draw critical sociological conclusions. It captures not only the moods and perceptions that prevail in each moment,but also the cumulative importance of the multiple crises that Greek society has faced in recent years.
But what are the consequences of the major crises of the 21st century that shape the emotional profile and value system of Greeks? Let’s take a brief overview of what the research has shown. As far as values are concerned Greeks seem to question values like the role of the state as an employer, the concept of national identity, and the universality of religious belief (religion). The analysis of the research from a sociological viewpoint also shows that a more liberal and pro-European society is gradually emerging. The focus is now shifted toward the dangers of the modern era and how they can be resolved effectively.
More in depth, insecurity (especially after the Russian invasion), frustration, anger (more intense amongst youth and women) characterize the emotional profile of the majority of participants, while it’s less common to feel confidence, certainty (security), pride. Crises that justify the prevalence of these emotions are none other than climate change/ environmental crisis and the war. The concern for the above mentioned threats, as well as the unpredictable future, has replaced the indifference of previous years and there is a significant predominance of science over religion -trying to use more rational means seems to be the norm.
On a more political level, Greeks demand a welfare state and not a state as an employer. People are leaning towards a pluralistic type of democracy (Swedish model). They expect the government to take precautions for (or even prevent) upcoming crises, they are seeking state aid, care, and political intervention in the economic field rather than basic income support (allowances). Reduction of the unemployment rate is also mentioned as an ideal government action. As far as international relations are concerned, the highest percentage of respondents are in favor of staying in the Eurozone. They supported that they would desire Europe to be much more involved in areas such as education, health, and national defense. A sort of “detachment” from stereotypical perceptions of the past (antisemitism, anti-Americanism) is also noticeable.
All in all, the research has helped paint the portrait of the modern Greek citizens. People who seek state protection without compromising their individual autonomy, who become more liberal and active despite the crises. It shows citizens who perceive national identity differently and shape their individual identity and who, above everything, view the world realistically, without illusions.
Our take on the findings
Some findings appear quite shocking but in a positive light. For example 17,2 % being atheists and 47% not being too close to church were some of the most unexpected findings given how close the country follows every religious tradition. This leads us to believe that there has been a shift of power in redefining the relationship with God or finally embracing the honesty that comes with denying its existence.
At the same time, a topic that strikes our interest is the issue of sexual assault, we proudly see that the results don’t categorize greek people as insensitive but rather understansing of the severity of the problem and the need to solve it which is very promising in a admittedly patriachial society that is Greece.
However, it appears strange how in theory we see so much sympathy for the victims yet the scrutiny and disbelief they receive are severely outweighed and make us wonder how much of it is real or not. Especially, since the results emerged in the course of 7 years, some would think that by now we would have seen this support more actively. To be fair though, we have become more aware, but is it the same as becoming more sympathetic?
The same applies for the pandemic. The article shows the majority of Greeks trusting scientists fully regarding COVID-19 yet there have been more than enough protests against masks and vaccines the past 2 years. A blatant contradiction is also how 89% are admitting to climate change having or will be having negative effects and yet most Greeks don’t recycle or take any significant action. All this draws a conclusion that we are indeed aware of issues and their importance and, as good as this is, it is not enough to provide a solution.
Moving on to a broader scene. Greece’s relationship with the world seems undoubtedly more positively perceived contrary to past beliefs. This is most likely a result of a younger, more “open” generation to the West that enjoys the ties the country already has with the European Union.
Having been part of the same demographic questioned and experiencing this new reality, we focused on some findings that drew our attention. They clearly depict the tendency to voice openly opinions, views, demands that were previously considered taboo. The new Greek mentality starts shifting from the apathetic acceptance of fate and state of things to an active seeking of living in a world of our own terms. They try to shape the future, bring injustices to the surface and fight for their rights. Yearning for security yet freedom is also really noticeable and we believe that in the years to come we will come to see a higher demand for government officials and national services being up to par as well as meritocracy.
Sources
Betty Tsakarestou, Mania Xenou
COLAB Team Members: Angeliki Kyriazi, Despoina Fragou, GeorgiannaChondrou, Angeliki Valeri
