Doctoral thesis revealed: How Germany's identity changed after the turn

Doctoral thesis revealed: How Germany's identity changed after the turn

Vechta, Deutschland - Press release - 25. November 2024 15:17

A milestone in political science! Seul a Lee has completed her doctorate at the University of Vechta with the coveted Magna Cum Laude. Your dissertation entitled "German Identity after reunification" highlights the fascinating development of German identity in the context of European security. Lee, who works as a teacher for special tasks at the university, has analyzed political speeches to research the interactions between national identity and European structure.

The focus of her work is: How has German identity changed since reunification? Lee refers to the Copenhagen school of international relations and its theory of insurance. It shows that a problem does not automatically become a security problem, but only by defining an actor as an existential threat. Your analysis includes important speeches of Federal President and Chancellor between 1989 and 2020, including the Christmas speeches and the speeches at the annual reception with diplomats.

Change of identity and European security

LEE notes that German identity formation after reunification has increasingly moved away from nationalism. Instead of a strong national togetherness, a post -nationalist community of value has developed that includes both European and global perspectives. This development could explain why right -wing movements such as Pegida and the AfD are gaining support in the new federal states. Lee argues that the gap in the collective identity that was created in the former GDR is perceived as loss.

In her summary, Lee emphasizes that the process of national identity formation in Germany has led to a disposal of the German question at European level. While Germany shows a weaker national self -confidence compared to its neighbors, it has also developed the reputation of a "good" neighbor within the European Union. Lee’s research thus offers valuable insights into the complex relationships between identity and security in Europe.