Transformation of the political mentality of Ukrainian society during the period of being part of the USSR

The article examines the causes and peculiarities of the transformation of the mentality of Ukrainian society in general and the political mentality in particular during the period of being part of the USSR under the totalitarian regime and communist ideology.Among the main changes in the political mentality of Ukrainians in Soviet times, the author identifies an increase in distrust/hostility towards the government and its institutions, the political system in general; unwillingness to comply with the law and the search for opportunities to circumvent it; disbelief in one's own strengths and capabilities, and an inferiority complex; focus on personal interests and immediate environment (individualism); passivity in public and political life; tolerance of corruption and the psychology of permissiveness of the so-called “small evil” for the sake of personal survival and “to avoid even worse”; adaptability, betrayal, etc.The modern modernization and successful development of Ukraine are complicated by the moods, beliefs, stereotypes, certain behavioral patterns, etc. present in Ukrainian society, which were formed in the Soviet era and allowed for physical survival, but are now destructive features of the post-totalitarian and post-colonial heritage that need to be eliminated is proved. These processes have been intensified by Russia's war against Ukraine.It is emphasized that the analysis of the specifics, mechanisms and consequences of the influence of the USSR on Ukrainian society allows us to explain a number of features of modern political behavior of Ukrainians, as well as the strengths and weaknesses of the Ukrainian political system. The author points out that the victory in the war with Russia, the successful modern experience of building a democratic state based on the rule of law in Ukraine, where citizens actively interact with the political system and political power is realized for the benefit of the Ukrainian people, can counteract the destructive effects of being part of the USSR on the political mentality of Ukrainians.