The article publicizes some results of the study of changes in Russians’ values, that have taken place during the past several years. The work is empirically based on the data obtained in 1995 to 1999 within the Study of World Values project (led by R.Inglehart). Making detailed analysis of the complex of Russians’ value orientations, the author states the catastrophically low potential of Russian citizens’ activity, their increasing distrust for crucial state, political and social institutions, and the aggravation of political apathy. According to the author’s conclusion, it is «values necessary for survival» that are, as before, dominant in contemporary Russian society, unlike the developed countries of the West.