Neutrality Studies It Is Worse Than You Think In Germany | Dr. Hans-Georg Moeller
Dec 8, 2025
In this discussion, Dr. Hans-Georg Möller, a Professor of Philosophy at the University of Macau and YouTube creator, critiques Germany's evolving political climate. He delves into how being labeled an 'understander' has become pejorative, shifts in media narratives about China, and the historical roots of Western hostility. Möller connects moralization in politics to a decline in democratic debate, warns about the dangers of labeling, and advocates for 'amoral hygiene' to foster healthier political discourse.
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Empathy Is Branded As Suspicion
- German discourse now treats those who show empathy for China as morally suspect and politically unreliable.
- Hans-Georg Möller reports he was labeled a 'Versteher' simply for living and working in China, which blocked trust in his expertise.
Personal Backlash For China Engagement
- Möller describes returning to Germany and being repeatedly lectured by people who knew little about China.
- A German sinologist friend had a letter to the editor rejected and received a personal reprimand for being a 'Versteher'.
Experts Replace Open Debate
- German media now privilege anonymous 'experts' who hold the politically correct line over named specialists with lived experience.
- This produces an epistemic hierarchy where believing the vetted expert equals critical thinking.
