All in Society

Move Slow and Fix Things

One of the most common complaints levelled at Germany is how slow it is to change. Decisions can feel drawn out, and in a world of disruptors, it can feel like Europe’s largest economy is voluntarily stuck in the mud. Is Germany really so averse to change, or is there something else going on?

The Grass is Always Greener

This week, Federal Health Minister Karl Lauterbach presented key points for the possible legalization of cannabis to the public. Although hurdles to legal weed remain, a change in law could come by 2024. What form will legal cannabis culture in Germany take, and will it ever be accepted?

A Royal Send-Off

The reaction of Germans to the death of the Queen has been surprising, but as in Britain, feelings range from sadness to disinterest. We may have this in common, but there are many nuances that might be missed in both countries. How have Germany and the UK differed, and what does the funeral of a monarch actually mean?

Complainers United

If there’s one thing that unites the UK and Germany it’s complaining. That being said, the approach to complaining is wildly different. What are the different cultures of complaining and why might having a cathartic moan lead to trouble in Germany?

The Power of Punctuality

If there’s one thing we all know it’s that Germany is the land of punctuality, but everywhere you look there are examples to the contrary. Time keeping here isn’t always as simple as just being on time. How punctual are the Germans and why might it be counterproductive to punish latecomers?

English for Beamte

In a country that has wrestled with its acceptance of migrants, one thing all sides of the political spectrum have agreed on is that migrants to Germany should learn to speak German. However, a recent FDP proposal may well see English become the an official bureaucratic language. Will this really make things easier for migrants and how difficult will it be to achieve?

Getting the Hoff

Many of my preconceptions about Germany have been thoroughly shattered over the years, but only one truly hurt; David Hasselhoff might not be the German icon I was led to believe. Despite being told this in my first years living here, I come to wonder If my early assumption was actually correct. Is Hasselhoff a cult hero or simply a curious historical footnote?

No Limit

Learning to drive in Germany can be one pitfall after another, but once you pass your test, the open Autobahn awaits. Driving on the Autobahn can be terrifying and exhilarating in equal measure, but it’s not all it’s cracked up to be. What’s it like to drive on the Autobahn and why must you be careful when discussing speed limits?

Sunday Service

Sunday trading is a contentious issue for many in Germany. Whereas some see it as the perfect way to boost local economies after the pandemic, others see it as direct attack on the rights of workers and a particular way of life. Should shops be allowed to open on Sundays or would it be a slippery slope to 24/7 consumerism?

The Lessons of History

We’re no longer living in the same Germany we were a week ago. The invasion of Ukraine has fundamentally changed German politics and possibly society at large. What can history tell us about this change and is that knowledge even useful

Inconvenience Culture

Shopping in Germany is rarely described as convenient. Supermarkets are hard to navigate, payment methods aren’t uniform and customer service is disinterested. Is Germany a land of inconvenience culture and could that actually be a good thing?