Urban dwellers enjoyed new products and more time, openness to social change and
science; influenced by ideas of
from Europe -- an emphasis on
and secular beliefs vs. traditional and religious beliefs

it's a secular holiday. it is and was a custom developed to recognize the ending of a time and a wish for a good future. the kind of kiss you exchange, if you are single, is intended to predict what kind of year you will have in the coming year.

it is saying good bye to the last year with all its ups and downs, and hello to the new year, with all its hopes and dreams.