Czech Republic in 2050?
Let me look into the future as a historian and make some bold prophecies. 2050. What could our world look, way forth then? And this country? I might be marking my 74th birthday and my son would be my present age. When I realize how the world has changed over the past few decades, I am not actually that eager to prophesize. Meaning, what technologies and modern-day inventions will enable us to do. I think the outlook is completely open-ended. One cannot forecast the future development and any attempt to do so will conjure up benevolent smiles at a later date. On the other hand, the historian in me makes me convinced that man essentially does not change, no matter if he wields a hand axe or an online iPhone. At best, man’s (mostly bad) character features become enhanced. That we don’t change will be easily demonstrated by the fact that we comprehend the literature of the Old Romans, understand the prayers of St. Augustine, the inner ravages of Shakespeare’s characters, the hope of the age of progress envisioned by Jules Verne, and the reasons for the arrival and ultimately also demise of several totalitarian regimes in the 20th century. The environment is changing; it’s been us who have lately started changing it – but we remain the same, nevertheless. What’s coming out of all this, for the next 34 years?
In my opinion, the Czech Republic, or Czech society, will increasingly pay in the next three decades for the nonexistence of its identity. The cardinal question is if we share a common identity at all. National identity? Come on! There is none despite exhortations by those who so readily abuse the concept of nation. Singular outburst in city squares to hail past ice hockey exploits, with the national colours held up high, cannot be considered a proof of national identity. Democratic identity? Perish the thought. We are prepared to quickly trade democracy for anything that offers satisfaction, safety and worldly goods to the masses, or at least in the extent enjoyed by thy neighbour. Christian identity? Sorry, you missed again. Moreover, Christianity amidst the current “crisis” of Europe is being mainly preached by those who never associated with it and their prescriptions offer all things but the Christian attitude to the world and the fellow human being. State identity? Perhaps, but… Will it be ever possible to identify with a state entity in so abstract a way, without any traits or content? Hardly so. I’d rather not discuss here the identity of solidarity, understanding, respect, self-denial or tolerance. As if such notions had temporarily retreated to vaults deep under ground, similarly as those from the beginnings of Christianity.
So, let me go back to square one. No matter what the world look like less than four decades hence, the question should actually sound different: What will become of us, what will our society be like? Whatever we call social changes, will doubtlessly change our perception of personal safety as a matter of fact. But our future must not be anchored in fear – of outer affairs and inner demons. It must stem from courage – courage in everyday life and courage in politics. Fear is the instrument of the demagogue, courage is a real politician’s tool, to paraphrase theologian Oto Mádr. There are still a good many of strong and good examples, towards which to lead the new generations of our society. Examples of bravery, personal integrity and self-sacrifice: it does not necessarily take action in critical moments of history, but it should take everyday examples in first place. I could identify many risks in my outlook 2050, but the risk of our “not knowing who we are” permeates all pragmatic risks. At the same time, however, I can see hope emanate from the simple fact that this is everybody’s chore. That we are not passive onlookers to the history gallop, but it is we who will share in creating future.