Katja Hoyer on East Germany Then and Now

Katja Hoyer's *Blood and Iron* explores the tumultuous history of the German Empire from its violent beginnings under Otto von Bismarck to its catastrophic defeat in World War I. The book delves into themes of national self-discovery, social upheaval, and realpolitik, offering a nuanced understanding of how modern Germany came into being. It highlights the complexities of the Second Reich, often overshadowed by its association with the rise of Nazism.

Written during World War II and published in 1945, 'The Open Society and Its Enemies' is a seminal work in political philosophy. Karl Popper critiques the theories of teleological historicism espoused by Plato, Hegel, and Marx, arguing that these theories undermine individual freedom and pave the way for authoritarian regimes. The book defends the open society and liberal democracy, emphasizing the importance of critical rationalism, individual freedom, and the ethos of scientific inquiry in politics. It also discusses the challenges facing open societies, including totalitarianism, dogmatism, and relativism, and advocates for a piecemeal approach to social reform.

In 'Iron Curtain', Anne Applebaum provides a detailed history of how Stalin and his agents imposed communism on Eastern Europe, transforming the lives of millions. The book explores the mechanisms of tyranny, including the role of secret police and the suppression of civil society, drawing on newly opened archives and personal accounts.