The collapse of the USSR and the official dissolution of this state in 1991 was a unique event in history. It was of great significance for the world. Europe could be a common home and the world could be free of military pacts. Three paths were open then, related to three interpretations of political reality. The first was represented by Gorbachev and it meant creating a world (Western culture – the second interpretation) based on common values. It’s idealism. However, the USA chose hegemonism, which meant the superiority of the values expressed by the United States and ordered the implementation of the mission. The third interpretation of reality resulted from political realism, i.e. striving for the balance of power and life in conditions of uncertainty. Idealism was rejected, liberal hegemonism was preached, and in practice, political realism won. However, it was not recognized by the hegemon, which means giving up rational calculations infavor of an axiological mission. The world has lost its chance.