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April 24, 2005
A View from Germany
I think Eric's post on the subject are at a refreshing height compared with many of the hysterical stuff that can be read on other blogs. Here in Germany there was no serious discussion of this subject until parts of the UK press picked it up. Actually, there's still no serious discussion, it's more a pandering to some form of nationalism. Most Germans (myself included) probably didn't think there was anymore meaningful to discuss. The distinctions between those who followed and those who believed and commited crimes are in place. 'Nuance', no doubt to some, but helpful not only for mere self-protecting."With regards to Eric's 'nitpicking', I find it unlikely that the new Pope will say the words that would make him feel better, even should he visit Israel or other places (like former concentrations camps) with a comparable symbolism. Instead, he will likely continue his former work as a cardinal, trying to improve relations with Jewish communities and the people. As many of them seemed to have welcomed his election, much of what is written about him these days on the left-leaning blogs I read seems quite bizarre to me.
"Eric's posts on this subject are however reasonable. I think we shouldn't overemphasize the symbolism involved, but it's a legitimate concern to have. Me, other things trouble me more, like Benedict's stance on homosexuality or birth control, but then my relatives weren't deported to concentration camps, mine fought in the army that protected them."
Thanks, Christian.
Posted by Eric at April 24, 2005 10:52 AM
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Comments
I realize in todays PC environment anyone born in Germany during the dark days of the 3rd Reich is under suspicion by the media elite and academia. But what about those born in Russia during the same period? I'd like to think most enlightened people will recognize that the Bolshevik revolution was as bad if not worse than Nazi Germany. This important book by Yuri Slezkine goes into content that has by and large been swept under the rug and is sure to make many people uncomfortable.
Posted by: William R at April 24, 2005 3:22 PM
Oh my gawd, my imperfect command of the English language exposed to the mighty blogsphere. I hereby authorize you to edit the most obvious errors out, should you ever feel the need to post a comment by me on the frontpage. ;)
On the more serious side and to pick up William's comment, I think it's perfectly understandable that the role of People who grew up and lived in totalitarian regimes is examined very carefully, especially when they rise to powerful positions as in this case. A very powerful position indeed. What strikes me as odd is that apparently some people - not genuine catholics but already critical towards the church - are shocked when they discover that the man was in fact no "saint", but one of the 9 out of 10 boys who were in the Hitler Youth.
Posted by: Christian at April 25, 2005 8:21 AM
Christian, wenn mein Deutsch genauso fehlerhaft wie Ihr Englisch wäre, wäre ich schon wohl zufrieden!
Posted by: Eric Muller at April 25, 2005 8:43 AM