Germany

The two authors of this book, one a specialist on the former West Germany and the other on the former East Germany, present a detailed analysis of Germany's current direction in politics, foreign policy, society and economics. They provide an account how the country has responded, and will continue to respond, to its 45 years of separation into two states, and address the issues of patriotism and identity among the German people. Also discussed are specific topics such as electoral policy, labour rights, the abortion debate, the new Germany's role in world affairs, and its status as a vital link between eastern and western Europe and as perhaps the most influential member of the European Union.