Why do the countries in central and eastern Europe drag so far behind western Europe in forming their own democracies, establishing a coherent constitution, and developing a safe society for their peoples? How is it that we are so much more advanced?
by 
mumpsimus
ANSWERS: 5
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A strong Asian influence from countless invasions. They were never big on democracy.
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At the risk of down-rates: I think it has principally to do with the rise of secularization in the western world which has contributed directly to the birth and development of science, and the concept of human rights. Many (but not all) western countries also enjoy a large natural resource to population ratio. Those that do not have such a large one (such as Japan) have made up for it in other areas.
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Partially, this is down to a lack of popular support. In Central and Eastern Europe, there is less public support for democracy; higher public rejection of capitalism; some (mostly Russians) still look back with nostalgia at the USSR; there is a higher belief that although democracy and capitalism are good in theory - they do not work in practice. Also, the public see their 'democratic' government failing, being inefficent and sometimes corrupt, they don't see their democratic and civil rights protected under this supposed - this also damages public faith and support in democracy. Without the public embracing and supporting democracy, then a strong and efficent democracy and all that comes with it is just not going to be pushed forward. We are still seeing the remaining impact, and legacy, of communism in Eastern Europe. It may take until this younger generation has become the senior generation for this to begin to shift.
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Well, we had something of a head-start on them.... by over 100yrs in some cases.
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The answer is simple: because the traditions of liberty and democracy are older and therefore more deeply rooted in Western Europe. Give them a break, it has only been 20 yrs since the Wall fell - they'll get there. In fact, they've done remarkably well, all things considered.
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