Germany economic decline & alternative futures - Maximilian Krah, Alexander Mercouris, Glenn Diesen
Nov 10, 2023
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Maximilian Krah, Alexander Mercouris, and Glenn Diesen discuss Germany's economic decline, de-industrialization, energy supply, the influence of the Green Party, clash between national interests and universal human rights, perception of values and democracy, and promoting a conservative classical liberal approach and the Chinese Simulational Initiative.
Germany's tough climate and foreign policies are undermining its manufacturing industry and export market, leading to deindustrialization and recession.
The pursuit of renewable energy and cutting ties with Russia as an energy supplier pose challenges for Germany's manufacturing industry and create complexities influenced by foreign policy and international relations.
The rise of the Green Party and dominance of left-liberal ideologies in Germany's political landscape have displaced traditional policies and led to a disconnect with the country's economic strengths.
Deep dives
Germany's Changing Role in the World
Germany's position in the world is weakening, and the Alternative for Deutschland (AfD) party is proposing an alternative. The German economy, which has been a powerhouse for Europe, is facing challenges due to climate and foreign policies. The tough climate policies conflict with Germany's manufacturing industry, which needs cheap energy. Additionally, the foreign policy approach, including sanctions and conflicts, is undermining Germany's export market. This combination of climate and foreign policies is seen as destructive to the German business model, leading to deindustrialization, recession, and poverty. The AfD aims to revive the traditional policies that once made Germany an economic powerhouse.
Germany's Struggle with Energy Policies
Germany's society, businesses, and politicians are grappling with the issue of energy. The pursuit of renewable energy and the desire to cut ties with Russia as an energy supplier have led to challenges. The climate policy aims for a transition to alternative energy sources like wind and solar, but this creates difficulties for Germany's manufacturing industry, which requires cheap energy. The establishment politicians argue that Germany can combine climate policies with maintaining economic wealth, but critics, including the AfD, assert that this is not possible and that Germany must choose between climate goals and economic success. The energy debate is complex and influenced by factors such as foreign policy and international relations.
Germany's Changing Political Landscape
Germany's political landscape has seen a rise in the Green Party, which has gained significant influence over economic and foreign policies. The Green Party's ascendancy is displacing traditional policies that prioritize German interests and a focus on industrialization and trade. The current political class in Germany lacks a sense of pursuing national interest and prioritizes values and global agendas instead. The rise of the Green Party and the dominance of left-liberal ideologies have led to a disconnect with Germany's historical traditions and the understanding of the country's economic strengths. This shift in political dynamics generates internal tensions and poses challenges for Germany's relationship with countries like Russia.
Germany's Relations with Russia
The relationship between Germany and Russia is complex and influenced by historical, geopolitical, and economic factors. Germany has historically benefited from strong ties with Russia, including economic cooperation and the geopolitical advantages of being aligned with Russia's heartland. However, the current political class in Germany, influenced by concerns of autocracy, cultural superiority, and geopolitical interests, has strained the relationship. The conflict in Ukraine exacerbates these tensions, with the West preferring democracy and values while Russia seeks to protect its sphere of influence. The potential outcomes for the conflict range from negotiated agreements and lifting sanctions to an extended war that further deteriorates relations.
The Need for a Reassessment of Germany's Political Approach
Germany needs to reassess its political approach and rejuvenate its leadership capabilities. The current political class lacks the ability to anticipate decisions and is detached from Germany's historical foundations. The post-war political priorities, influenced by Western powers, have led to a disconnect from German identity and interests. There is a need to rediscover and embrace a political system that aligns with Germany's heritage and recognizes the importance of values specific to German civilization. By broadening the perspective beyond classical liberalism, Germany can have more meaningful engagement with other cultures and navigate global challenges effectively.