TY - BOOK AU - Kampfner,John TI - Why the Germans do it better: notes from a grown-up country SN - 9781786499752 U1 - 943 PY - 2020/// CY - London PB - Atlantic Books KW - National characteristics, German KW - Germany KW - Civilization KW - 21st century KW - Social conditions KW - Politics and government N2 - "Emerging from a collection of city states 150 years ago, no other country has had as turbulent a history as Germany or enjoyed so much prosperity in such a short time frame. Today, as much of the world succumbs to authoritarianism and democracy is undermined by misinformation and short-termism, Germany stands as a bulwark for decency, competence and stability. Mixing personal journey and anecdote with compelling empirical evidence, this is a provocative and entertaining exploration of the country many still love to hate. Raising important questions for our post-Brexit landscape, Kampfner asks why Germany has become a model for others to emulate, while Britain struggles to tackle many contemporary challenges. Part memoir, part history, part travelogue, 'Why the Germans Do It Better' is a rich and witty portrait of an eternally fascinating country."-- ER -