Effi Briest by Theodor Fontane (1896). In the confrontation between Geert von Instetten and Major Crampas, Instetten challenges Crampas to a duel after discovering that his wife Effi had an affair. The duel is framed as a matter of honor, duty, and adherence to societal rules. Instetten’s actions are driven not by personal anger but by a sense of obligation to maintain social order and follow protocol. The focus on duty, principle, and maintaining the integrity of agreements underscores the German tendency to adhere strictly to social norms and established structures.
Locarno Treaties (1925)
Gustav Stresemann, German Foreign Minister, played a key role in negotiating the Locarno Treaties, which aimed to stabilize post-WWI Europe. His approach was methodical and focused on building trust and establishing clear, fixed agreements to prevent future conflict, embodying the German preference for structure and legal certainty.
Treaty of Paris (1783)
Benjamin Franklin played a pivotal role in negotiating the Treaty of Paris, which ended the American Revolutionary War. His charm, diplomacy, and strategic use of alliances were key to securing favorable terms from Britain. Franklin emphasized common interests over conflicts, demonstrating a patient, persuasive, and strategic approach to negotiation.
structured, fact-focused
In Tatort, a long-running German crime series, negotiation scenes between police detectives and suspects often highlight the German preference for logical, methodical questioning. Detectives maintain a calm, detached demeanor, presenting evidence step-by-step to systematically dismantle the suspect’s alibi. Emotional appeals are minimal, with a strong emphasis on factual analysis and procedural accuracy. This structured, fact-focused negotiation style is emblematic of the German approach to interrogation.
Locarno Treaties (1925)
Post-WWI, Germany sought to normalize relations with Western powers. The Locarno Treaties established Western borders and eased tensions. The negotiation team, led by Gustav Stresemann, focused on rebuilding trust and establishing clear, fixed agreements to prevent future conflict. Stresemann applied a logical, step-by-step approach, pushing for legally binding agreements that ensured territorial integrity and economic stability.
Marshall Plan Negotiations (1947-48)
After WWII, Germany was economically devastated. The U.S. proposed the Marshall Plan to aid European recovery. The West Germans approached negotiations with a clear focus on economic stability and long-term growth, rather than immediate relief. German negotiators emphasized the need for a clear framework and accountability, insisting on well-documented plans for how funds would be used.
The Trial by Franz Kafka (1925)
In the interrogation of Josef K., a bank officer, Kafka depicts a nightmarish negotiation with bureaucratic authorities. Josef K. attempts to defend himself using logic and reason, but the officials evade direct questions, maintain a strict procedural approach, and refuse to clarify the charges. The relentless, rule-bound bureaucracy demonstrates the dark side of German negotiation logic, where procedures and formalities can overshadow fairness and clarity.
The Sorrows of Young Werther by Goethe (1774)
In a conversation between Werther and Albert, Lotte’s fiancé, the two men discuss love, duty, and rational decision-making. Albert presents his perspective calmly and rationally, emphasizing order, moral responsibility, and societal norms. Werther, driven by passion and emotion, struggles to argue against Albert’s logical stance. Albert embodies the structured, rational communication style typical of German negotiating logic, emphasizing reason over emotion.
Solution vs. Deal
Germans are interested in solutions and not in deals. Negotiations are not some kind of game. Any form of drama or tactics are viewed as shady, suspect, dubious.
Thorough vs. Fast
Because Germans think, plan, and negotiate long-term, thoroughness is always preferred over speed. Hasty negotations are seen as not thought through, therefore not reliable.