Thomas Mann’s essays, especially his Deutsche Ansprache. Ein Appell an die Vernunft (German Address. An Appeal to Reason), explicitly champion the idea of rational, objective debate as a cornerstone of German culture. Mann’s literary and public works often reflect his belief that German identity is rooted in a tradition of reasoned discourse, even in times of personal or national crisis. His approach exemplifies the separation of the personal (identity, emotion) from the professional or civic duty to engage in rational debate for the common good.
Mommy issues
Comments: “They become weak and then they become American.” … “My mom says “geh mit Gott aber geh” (Go with God, but go)” … “My mother is German, and as a child when I would get upset over something she would say to me, “YOU AMERICANS ARE SO SENSITIVE!” *my father is American. I grew up in the states lol” … “We only miss people when they die.” A bit harsh, but thats the German way.”
Doctor Faustus
In this reimagining of the Faust legend, the protagonist Adrian Leverkühn’s life as a composer is marked by a strict separation between his artistic (professional) pursuits and his personal relationships. The narrative delves into the costs of such compartmentalization, reflecting broader themes of German culture and intellectual life.
These novels use family, business, and societal settings to highlight the German tendency to address professional or ideological matters directly, while striving to keep personal relationships unaffected by such disputes.
Liesbeth and Friedrich
In the series Tannbach (Line of Separation), Liesbeth Erler and her son Friedrich are depicted navigating the aftermath of World War II in a divided Germany. They face intense political and ethical disagreements within their community and families, yet strive to keep personal relationships intact despite ideological divides. The narrative shows characters arguing fiercely about substance—politics, survival, collaboration—but continuing to live and work together as neighbors and family members.
The Edukators
Die fetten Jahre sind vorbei (The Edukators, 2004). This film centers on three young activists who break into wealthy homes to make political statements. The trio often debate and even argue intensely about their ideals, strategies, and personal motivations. Despite heated disagreements, their personal relationships persist, showing how Germans can separate ideological or professional disputes from personal bonds.
Discretion
Sensitive feedback discussions in Germany are done one-to-one. Germans will, however, openly criticize another colleague in the presence of the team. This is not seen as unfair, but instead a necessary in order to “get the issues on the table.” Examples
Performance
Germans separate the personal from the professional. Feedback, both formal and informal, addresses performance only. It is given in a neutral and unemotional way. Feedback, whether positive or negative, is not meant personally. Examples
Scores
Germans believe that feedback scores are most effective when they are accurate and realistic. When in doubt, Germans are deflationary.
The school grading system is: 1 is sehr gut (very good); 2 is gut (good); 3 is befriedigend (satisfactory); 4 is ausreichend (sufficient); 5 is mangelhaft (insufficient); 6 is ungenügend (failed). Examples