This text examines the ways in which several generations of Polish intellectuals after the partitions of Poland, responded to the challenge of modern industrial civilization. While describing the heated controversies raging between pessimistic traditionalists, progressive liberal Westernizers, and radical critics of capitalism, Jedlicki shows how closely moral, national and religious, and economic concerns were intertwined. This work is aimed at students of East-Central European politics and history, and those interested in the development of Polish culture and society.