In 13 chapters eight INTAS-projects are presented, reflecting different aspects of the internal and external preconditions the inhabitants of the new independent states have to deal with. INTAS is the International Association for the promotion of cooperation with scientists from the New Indepentent States of former Soviet Union, Brussels. The book, besides an introduction and an epilogue, comprises four parts: The different facets of identity and politics Social traditions, democracy, market economy and ecology The functining of families in East and West Young people Almost all chapters, directly or indirectly, take also into account aspects, which are relevant for Western Europe. An important East-West comparison!