Well, I think he's right to notice that there is a difference in attitudes and even in the broadest sense of world view between Eastern Europe and Western Europe. Which is old and which is new is an interesting question, and I almost think that maybe he's got it backwards.
“I just try to get out of my own way because if anyone is their own worst enemy, it's usually you.”
“Nothing is more dangerous than a friend without discretion; even a prudent enemy is preferable.”