Customer Reviews

Germany: Unraveling an Enigma

5 star:		(11)
4 star:		(4)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Finally - a well-researched and up-to-date book on Germany and the Germans. The author gives some historical background, an overview of German cultural themes, a comparison between typical German and American communication patterns, and an overview of the German business model and business beharviors. The last chapter is devoted to exploring the changes in German society at the turn of the 21st century. As one of them (yes, I am German), I have felt accurately portrayed, without the stereotypical mindlessnesses that tends to charactarize a lot of American authors writing about Germany. Two thumbs up! This book is a gem.

Like Nees, I have also live in both the US and Germany, and this book was really informative. I learned to understand my German culture in a way I never had before. It explained all of those "German" things that I do. I think this book is an essential step for those who are learning about Germany and its culture.

As an American living in Germany, I've become accustomed to asking "why?", this book has given me many of the answers. Now I understand the German social market economy, German communication styles, the importance of formality and work/non-work divisions, the importance that Germans give to "doing something right the first time", etc.

The book overall is quite good. Also, as a German, I can speak to its incredible accuracy in terms of our custums/traditions and how they differ from those in America. I enjoyed chapter 4 the most and as I was reading it only for enjoyment purposes did not really benefit from the discussion of the differing business practices. However, if you are an American unfamiliar with us and will be doing business in Germany or with Germans it is a definite must read. It is well worth the price of the book.

I purchased this book on the recommendation of a friend but with reluctance because I simply cannot take another book that dwells on the evils of Germans and states and/or implies that Nazism is the greatest evil known to mankind as an axiom upon which all German history must be based, both past and present. This book was a refreshing surprise. It barely touches the subject, instead it focuses upon the real day to day thought processes and communication methods used by Germans in a variety of arenas, as well as providing a very brief, but likely helpful to many readers, overview of German history. As a German-American I found myself smiling throughout the book as my personality was described almost flawlessly, with a few Americanisms thrown in for good measure, of course. It also prompted many memories of my first trip to Germany, the first few days of which I was furious at all the stares I was receiving every time I entered a pub, restaurant, etc. In parts of the USA the expressionless staring I received could get you shot! This certainly includes every American city I have ever lived in so I felt constantly under attack for the first 48 hours until I simply realized that it is just "what they do" in Germany. I was quite taken aback by this. If only I'd had this book with me at the time. (Note to Germans: We Americans are very easy to spot. We know this. So please don't stare at us. We don't like it. Thank you.) My only criticism is the author's continued insistence that genetics play no part in behavior and that culture is the crucial deciding factor in behavior. This is simply not true, as any informed reader ought to know. Clearly this was an attempt by Nees to soften and/or evade the issue of Nazism and perhaps, in this context, it is just as well as this is not an historical book per se. I would urge anyone interested in Germany, about to travel there, or any German about to travel to the States to read this book. There is a lot to learn and Nees does a wonderful job at explaining and clarifying issues that might increase tension between personal interactions if not known beforehand. One of the most enjoyable books I have read in a long time. A light, fun read certain to bring a smile while provoking thought.

I couldn't stop reading this book. It is done in an academic style much like a college text but I was still captivated over the detailed explanations of the cultural and behavioral differences. Keep an open mind when reading how others might perceive American culture. Enjoyable and informative!

Other than the fact that this book is probably somewhat dated (it was written in the late 90's), I cannot complain about this book.

On to what I love about this wonderful gem of a book. I am an American, and have no idea when my ancestors came over from Germany, but I do know it was no earlier than the mid-1800's. Our German heritage has never really been discussed amongst my family. Not out of shame, but probably just disinterest- for everyone but me. I have always been proud to be a descendent of Germany, though, until I read this book, I couldn't really articulate why.

Reading this book, in some ways, felt like coming home. I was amazed at how much of the German ways are still in me and my family. It must be genetic, but it still astounded me.

I really learned a lot about both old Germany and modern Germany. I liked the decisiveness the author spoke of about the German people, and it was obvious that the author held the Germans in high regard.

He did not flinch from his talk about Nazism, nor did he dwell on it. It was a part of the book, but not a big part. The Germans have done much to try and make up for what happened in WWII, some of which the author talks about. He makes no excuses, but also doesn't focus on placing blame. It was a refreshing and objective look at the whole subject.

Most of all, I was astounded at the difference between Americans and Germans in terms of the business world. As a long-time office worker, I was admittedly jealous of the organized ways and practicality the Germans seem to display in business, as well as the forthright manner in which they handle situations. I loved how the author stressed how thorough and deliberate the German people are (as a whole, of course, I don't mean to stereotype anyone). I really respect the strong work ethic balanced with the demand by employees of 6 weeks of vacation time and no or little overtime to work. American employers and employees can learn a great deal from this book. In fact, I think that it should be required reading for all American managers.

I think that anyone who is curious about Germany must read this book. I re-read it every year or so and get more out of it every time. It is the best I have found on the subject of post-war Germany.

This book may be a little out dated here and there (thats why only 4 star) but it still serves the purpose nonetheless. I studied abroad in Germany for 6 months and this gave me an amazing insight into the culture of Germany. Put it on as your #1 on your reading list while in Germany or before going. It will help you cope very well. My other study abroad friends also found it very insightful.

It is also a nice quick well thought out book.

I am American and have a degree from a German university in translation and lived in Germany for over 8 years. I have to say that this book is simply brilliant and really explains what makes the Germans tick. I cannot recommend this book highly enough.

This book is everything the description stated. I am really enjoying it and getting an insight on Germany and the people. It has helped me understand my German heritage and my grandparents/family a whole lot more.