What kind of country do Egyptians want to build? That is one of the most important questions arising from the country's recent revolution, one with enormous geopolitical consequences and whose answer remains clouded in speculation, mystery and contradiction.
Egyptians toppled their government in part because it cared little about their views and priorities. Until now, the public had negligible influence in the country's policymaking process. That has changed suddenly and dramatically. Without a history of open political discourse and competitive elections, however, it is unclear what path Egyptians will choose in the coming months when, presumably, democracy will turn public opinion into a potent force for charting the country's future.
A number of polls carried out by American and European organizations offer a glimpse into the Egyptian mindset, revealing a future electorate that at turns seems moderate, if not outright progressive. But it also appears eager to embrace some of the very customs that send shivers down Western spines.