AUTONOMY, A THREAT OR AN OPPORTUNITY? CASE STUDY.

The present article is an attempt to provide an answer to a question whether the actions on behalf of obtaining autonomy for Upper Silesia by members of the Silesian Autonomy Movement (SAM), are a threat to, or an opportunity for the Republic of Poland (RP). Before moving on to the principal topic, the author is going to present the research methodology and familiarize the reader with the most important facts about the history of Silesia. Then, the author shall attempt to define the term autonomy. The reader will become familiar with the goals, structure and activities of the Silesian Autonomy Movement. Finally, specific examples of events will be provided along with results of sociological research. The whole will be summed up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]