Beyond the swastika
By: Peter O'Brien.
Publisher: Routledge
Published: 1996
Place of publication: London; New York
Language: eng
Number of pages: 138
Subjects: Nationalism -- Germany.; Aliens -- Germany.; Liberalism -- Germany.; Racism -- Germany.; Xenophobia -- Germany.; Germany -- Ethnic relations.
Description: Since unification, alarmist reports of neo-Nazi attacks against foreign workers and new immigrants have led to fears that Germany is reverting to a xenophobic nationalist stance. Peter O'Brien argues that fears of a resurgent German nationalism are overstated. He traces, in the policies of the Federal Republic, a longstanding and steadily increasing commitment to the liberal principles of the Basic Law, which legally protect foreigners from hostile German nationalism.

The real cause for concern in Germany, O'Brien argues, is the very entrenched liberalism which holds nationalism in check; a 'technocratic liberalism' which overzealously protects Germany's liberal democracy and prevents minority groups from achieving full rights of political participation.

Pioneering in its approach and thesis, Beyond the Swastika will be stimulating reading for those interested in postwar West German politics, Germany since Unification, migrants, refugees and East Germans in Germany, as well as the legacy of the Holocaust.
Notes: Includes bibliographical references (p. 129-132) and index.