The study recionstructs the theoretical and political-historical notion of socialism, thus flowing into the debate going on the pages of this journal. The author points out that the notion of socialism is multilayered and has a changing meaning and this can not be separated from the natural needs of people (free education, health care etc.) However, in order to become universal, it must expand into an economic development, which must include surmounting the trusteeship of both the state and capital.

Strange transitions have happened on the brims of globalisation. The study presents the result of the "deep drilling" in the surroundings of Kunhegyes. The micro-processes tell a lot about the nature of teh big picture.

The evolution of Hungarian new capitalism, similarly to the other Central Eastern European countries has happened under the flag of neoliberalism. One of the specialities of transition is the multiple change of political orientation of the technocrats and economists, which (among others) has led to te present dual party orientation.