The first moments after such a radical change were marked by a universal feeling of joy. We were amazed at the beauty of the world which had until then been hidden from us, surprised at how dazzlingly bright the light of freedom was. But soon the amazement and elation passed away and we all found that the world which the fog had for so long concealed from us contained a great deal of surprising phenomena, new interrelationships, new problems and new tasks. An urgent need to build a whole new world became obvious. Among the various layers forming our identity, the affiliation to our nation plays a role of great importance.
Problems arise if there is extreme nationalism or religious fundamentalism.
Such a society does not suppress individual's rights as long as this does not jeopardize the self-realization of others. But this is possible only in an environment that has embraced a cerstain set of universally binding rules of coexistence in a state ruled by law, and based on respect for human rights. Our civilization is truly a global civilization. However, it is marked by an intensified desire of its various cultures to preserve something of their unique individuality. Therefore, the best alternative for the future development of this civilization lies in the enhancement of larger economic groupings and in cooperation among them.