Humanity must serve as the primary religion for society, where individuals show kindness, offer comfort, and help one another, according to Vytautas Landsbergis, the first factual leader of restored Lithuania and political patriarch. Speaking at the “Būtent” discussion festival in a conversation with director Karolis Kaupinis, Landsbergis emphasized that true societal well-being stems from interpersonal connection rather than economic indicators like minimum wage or gross domestic product.
Reflecting on Freedom and National Character
Recalling past reflections, Landsbergis stated that one of his own past mistakes was paying insufficient attention to diplomat Stasys Lozoraitis, who warned about a shortage of the “new man” needed to carry out the qualitative changes brought by freedom. According to Landsbergis, achieving state independence in 1990 was not the final goal of nation-building, but rather a necessary condition or tool to help people become better.
Landsbergis pointed out that the problem of human shortage has not diminished over time. He urged individuals to look inward rather than simply wishing for a better society around them, noting that a genuine welfare state relies entirely on members of society treating each other with basic human decency and empathy.
Did You Know? During the awakening of the Sąjūdis movement, people in various institutions established informal rules to fine themselves for using Russian swear words, depositing money into a shared fund for every infraction as a sign of rising civic consciousness.
Personal Responsibility and Historical Context
Addressing international politics and potential security threats, Landsbergis noted that scenarios involving foreign aggression and demands to surrender freedom have hung over the Baltic states since the restoration of independence in 1990. When asked about hypothetical pressure from Russia demanding territorial concessions in exchange for leaving other nations alone, he argued that citizens must choose not to compromise their core principles or surrender their liberty.
Drawing on personal memories, Landsbergis referenced his childhood friend, artist Jurgis Mačiūnas, and his companions who famously washed Broadway street in New York with buckets and rags to clean a dirty world. He used the example to illustrate that meaningful change starts with small, individual actions rather than waiting for others to fix societal flaws.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Vytautas Landsbergis identify as the main religion society should have?
According to Landsbergis, the primary religion society should have is humanity, defined by individuals helping, embracing, and comforting one another.
How does Landsbergis define a true welfare state?
He stated that a true welfare state is not measured by average wages, minimum pay, gross domestic product, or benefit sizes, but by the kindness and human connection shared among society members.
What historical example did Landsbergis use to illustrate individual effort?
He recalled how his childhood friend, artist Jurgis Mačiūnas, and others took buckets and rags to clean New York’s Broadway street as a practical step to combat the dirt and imperfections of the world.
What steps are you taking in your daily life to foster greater human connection within your community?
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