Historian Ute Frevert Explores Germans' Emotional Bond With Constitutions
Internationally renowned historian Ute Frevert, born in 1954, has delved into the emotional bond between Germans and their constitutions in her latest book, 'Constitutional feelings'. Her research, spanning social underclasses, trust, and emotions, reveals intriguing insights into the acceptance of state orders and the role of constitutions.
Frevert's work echoes Karl Loewenstein's observations from the 1950s, which noted a lack of 'constitutional feeling' in the Federal Republic of Germany. This emotional dimension, Frevert argues, is crucial for the acceptance of a state order.
In the Weimar Republic, enthusiasm for the constitution grew over time, with nationwide celebrations. Post-reunification, however, 52 percent of East Germans desired a new constitution. Instead, a joint Constitutional Commission was established, reflecting the lower identification of East Germans with the Basic Law today. Historical and social factors, such as the legacy of socialist democracy mentalities and distrust in political institutions, contribute to this phenomenon. Additionally, social structural differences and experiences shaped by East Germany's history play a significant role.
Despite the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party's professed love for the constitution, historian Ute Frevert suspects that its voters may not share this sentiment. In stark contrast, a recent survey in 2023 revealed that 83 percent of German citizens expressed great or fairly great trust in their constitution.
Ute Frevert's research underscores the importance of emotional connection to constitutions, with historical and social factors shaping this bond. While the AfD's stance on the constitution remains ambiguous, overall trust in it remains high among German citizens. Understanding and addressing these emotional dynamics could strengthen the acceptance and support of the constitution among all Germans.
