Our society is mentally living in a state of war, says University of Latvia leading Philosophy and Sociology Institute’s leading researcher Kaspars Zellis.
During this week’s online discussion «Can values unite society? Looking for answers in Latvia’s 20th century history and modern day» he explained society is already mentally in a state of war – with buckwheat, salt and baking soda sold out, this indicates people’s reaction to events of the past. However, past experience in this particular case is irrational and unjustified.
Youth International Programme agency’s International Cooperation and Support Office manager and history teacher Nils Mosejonoks says society is living in a war because people imagine themselves experiencing what is currently happening in Ukraine.
Zellis mentioned people cannot remain neutral during a war.
A way out of a war situation is not staying neutral and voicing opinions, which is something proven by events that took place during the National Awakening.
Mosejonoks said it is important to not hide the events in Ukraine from youngsters and present the truth about the war, because experience proves youngsters consider a war as a sort of adventure.
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«When WWI came, trains were full of young and smiling soldiers. They didn’t know what was really is. This illusion, of course, fell apart when they faced the reality of war,» reminded Mosejonoks.
War puts fear in people, and adults who want to protect themselves and their children avoid talking about it and reading about developments. This makes them equal to the aggressor, claims Mosejonoks. He says balance is needed in such situations.
As for the situation with Ukrainian refugees, Zellis said Latvia should think about it in a long-term perspective, once refugees are no longer considered a burden.
Director of Žaņa Lipke Memorial Lolita Tomsone added in the discussion that society, especially youngsters, have to understand that Ukrainian refugees have gone through psychologically difficult experience and their reactions can vary. «It is important to understand these people and keep in mind – anyone can end up in their shoes,» explained Tomsone, hoping for society to find empathy.
On 24 February Russian army invaded Ukraine, attacking both military and civilian infrastructure, as well as causing a flow of refugees.
Historian: society is mentally living in a state of war
