Flag dispute: German identity between pride and division!

Flag dispute: German identity between pride and division!

Thüringen, Deutschland - The discussion about national symbols and their importance for society is currently enjoying great attention. We particularly encounter the black, red and gold flag, and not only in sports, but also in political debates. Andreas Bühl, a pioneer on this topic, recently emphasized that there is an urge among the population to show symbols and thus breastfeed a longing for identity. However, he criticizes that the state fails to live this symbolism itself and consider the black-red-gold flag as a sign of the Basic Law and for the protection of all people in Germany. Bühl describes society as divided and emphasizes that one could be proud of the common achievements of the past 35 years. He hopes that an upcoming demonstration in which the national flags are the focus can make a contribution to unity. However, the reactions are different.

Katja Maurer, the state chairwoman of the left, expresses concerns. In her view, pride can only be generated by a good policy, and they question whether everyone can really gather behind the Germany flag. With a look at her own life, she realizes that it does not look so positive for everyone, which makes them a differentiated view of the topic.

The debate about pride and nationalism

Professor Ulrich Wagner, a social psychologist at the University of Marburg, underlines the challenges associated with the use of the national flag. He warns of her abuse and calls for a critical examination of Germany's cosmopolitanism. During the 2006 World Cup, the company experienced a liberating way of dealing with the national colors, but afterwards there was a growing tendency towards national self-centeredness.

Wagner explains that nationalism and patriotism are scientifically differentiated, but often blur together in everyday life. The danger of nationalism lies in the devaluation of others, while patriotism longs for the democratic development of the country. The situation is additionally exacerbated by populist governments in Europe, promote nationalist ambitions and thus endanger the image of a diverse European identity.

social division and identity issues

This discussion about dealing with national identity has again gained explosive since the reunification in 1990. Topics such as the constitution and dealing with the SED past are central points in the identity discourse. Also the question "What is German today?" is discussed controversially. Jürgen Habermas spoke of the "burden of the double past" and addressed the fears of a new Greater German Empire who were fueled abroad.

Now the problem of the influx of asylum seekers and the associated xenophobic attacks that influence the identity debate. An example shows in surveys that show different ideas about civil rights criteria: While 75 % of West German pride in their citizenship, it is only 50 % in East Germany. The depth of these identity questions is reflected in the results that anti -Semitism in West Germany is greater than in the east. This could further complicate the overall discussion.

whether a proud and cosmopolitan Germany can be found remains an open question. The current debates should stimulate the national symbols not only as political statements, but also as part of a diverse identity that offers space for different perspectives and life realities.

mdr reports on the longing for national symbols.

Rnd addresses the challenges of the national stump.

bpb discusses the influence of reunification on national identity.