Union democracy in the years 1980-1981 in memory and assessment of the members of NSZZ “Solidarity” of the Bydgoszcz Region

Abstract

The emergence, since this word is used to describe the beginning of Solidarity, surprised its members. In the majority of cases they were not prepared to functioning in democratic trade union structures. They also had no models. Using their intuition and good will they were self-taught in the Solidarity school of democracy. They leamed mainly by trial and error. Studying of communicative memory of persons who belonged to this school includes 110 active members of NSZZ “Solidarity” of the Bydgoszcz region in 1980-1981. Empirical evidence was collected primarily in three ways, including survey (questionnaires), interview and analysis of documents. The study used a parameter method known as cataloged interview survey. The study showed dissonance between the idealistic vision of democracy and its practical implementation. This difference between the idea and practice was influenced by lack of experience, human weaknesses and intensive sabotage of the Security Service.