Johann Wolfgang von Goethe’s dramas, such as Torquato Tasso and Iphigenie auf Tauris, are notable for their exploration of conflict through rational dialogue and the pursuit of objective truth. Characters in these works often engage in intense intellectual or ethical debates, but the disagreements remain focused on principles or duties, not personal animosity. The emphasis is on the matter at hand—be it justice, truth, or duty—rather than on personal feelings.
performance
reasoned discourse
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.
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.
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
Performance
German Approach
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
American Approach
Americans link the personal with the professional. Feedback addresses primarily performance, but takes into consideration how it will be received. Feedback on one’s work is feedback on that individual. It is by its very nature personal. Examples
American View
The German separation of personal and professional is impersonal, removed, cold. A stern teacher versus an inspiring coach.
German View
The American approach is too subjective, personal, almost cozy. A psychotherapist versus a demanding teacher.
Advice to Germans
As in all communication with Americans, soften your tone, see your interaction not only as between two functions within an organization, but also as between two people. Your American team member or colleague will not lose the fact of the former.
Advice to Americans
The German business culture favors more of a teacher-student relationship than coach-player. If you lead Germans, cultivate more of a teacher-student relationship with your German team-members.
Add a little distance between yourself and your German reports. You will not come across as disinterested or uncaring, but as clear-headed, focused on progress.