Summary: The aim of this article is to join the discussion on changes in social attitudes that have occurred as a result of civilizational transformations, the effects of which limit society's ability to defend itself and, moreover, can be exploited by a potential adversary as weak points in exerting cognitive influence. The article shows that security is becoming a political interest rather than a value that has been a determinant and measure of responsibility for the fate of the state for years. The reasons for this include a change in the value system, social polarization, and progressive alienation within the information society. Consumption becomes an escape from the uncertainty of tomorrow. Living in constant change affects mental well-being and increases the body's susceptibility to control, which in turn creates fertile ground for cognitive influence. Information campaigns should take on a new dimension. Recruiting for the military is different from trying to convince citizens to defend their homeland. In times of peace, these issues are equated with each other, which is why the average citizen sees the problem of national defense through the prism of the Armed Forces' tasks. It should be expected that in the event of possible mobilization measures, the issue of national defense will cause polarization among the population (due to, among other things, the violation of well-being), and in the event of wartime activities, it may turn out that the sense of duty to defend the homeland will be an uncomfortable value accepted only by a limited portion of the population. In order to correctly predict behavior on a macro scale, it is necessary to identify in advance the possible causes of changes in social attitudes. Purpose and research methods: The aim of this article is to join the discussion on changes in social attitudes that have occurred as a result of civilizational transformations, the effects of which limit society's ability to defend itself and, moreover, can be exploited by a potential adversary as weak points in exerting cognitive influence. Comparative analysis. Conclusions / recommendations: In order to correctly predict behavior on a macro scale, it is necessary to identify in advance the possible causes of changes in social attitudes. There is no comprehensive study of these issues in Poland with a view to implementing systemic countermeasures as part of preventive and educational programs. Such programs should be launched as early as possible, as their results will only become apparent in several or even a dozen or so years.