The role of selected soft factors in the transformation of old industrial regions

This paper deals with immaterial factors of regional development. As it is shown in two case studies, intangible items, such as image, stereotypes or overall atmosphere of the place can hamper the development in many territories. From this point of view, old industrial areas represent particularly sensitive entities. As suggested, it is useful to examine the sources of formation of mental maps on the one hand and actively influence them on the other hand.