The effect of balanced development idea on the quality of life of inhabitants in selected municipalities of the Silesian province

The article presents the effect of balanced development on the quality of life of Silesian Province inhabitants. The aim of the surveys was to determine the attitude of local governments to the idea of balanced development, as well as to present instruments and the extent of balanced development idea implementation in particular municipalities. The conducted studies have revealed that most municipalities claim they follow balanced development principles and declare a wish to improve the quality of life of its inhabitants. However, the above actions are merely theoretical. As a matter of fact, greater awareness of the authorities and a change in the model of particular municipalities' management is needed so that the balanced development concept can be practically implemented.