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Andreas Rödder
The “German model” between story of success and verdict of decay
Keywords: Modell Deutschland, Krise der Bundesrepublik
The "German disease" that is currently diagnosed in the media constitutes a marked contrast to the traditional narrative about the "success story" of the "German model". In a review of essential developments in the history of the Federal Republic of Germany – such as the relations between the economy and the state, the welfare state, demographic developments, social structures and social culture, the political system and, last but not least, foreign policy – assets and liabilities are assessed. The liabilities are moreover examined as to whether they are suitable for securing the assets in the long run. Besides, the narrative of the "success story" can be regarded as a part of collective self-satisfaction, and as such its contribution to taking the German model to a crossroads for its ability to survive has been considerable. This is neither a teleological story of success nor a story of decay. The history of the Federal Republic of Germany remains open.
Vierteljahrshefte für Zeitgeschichte, Oldenbourg Wissenschaftsverlag
Print ISSN: 0042-5702
Volume: 54, 03/2006
Pages: 345 - 363