Press-releases in English. The participants commented on problems associated with the interrelationships between the globalization process, democratic transformations and Christian traditions. The emerging global civilization implies at the very least a minimal consent on basic values, something that can only result through dialogue with religion. Democracy presupposes values which it itself does not originate. Democracy is not based solely on the introduction of particular political and economic structures and institutions.
Democracy is a culture of intercourse between people and social groups.
It was not by chance that the democratic system, the rule of law, etc. arose on soil prepared for by Western Christianity, with its distinctive synthesis of Judeo-Christian religion, Hellenic philosophy, Roman law, and Protestant individualism. With the process of globalization, religion is acquiring a new social role - to convey cultural identity. At the same time, it should not become an instrument for the realization of national and political interests. Instead, it should strive for consensus in the sphere of moral values, and aim to build bridges between peoples and cultures. Mary Korica Copyright 1996-2000 Carnegie Moscow Center.