German economic and social policy, 1815–1939

Abstract

Introduction: principles of economic structure, theory, and policy in Germany, 1815–1939 Profound changes in manifestation and intensity have taken place in the relations between state and economy in Germany during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. It could not have been otherwise in an age during which Germany passed through a violent and permanent upheaval of its economic and social structures and traditions, and repeatedly and fundamentally recast its political constitution. These upheavals had profound effects on the future development of economic and social policy. It would be unprofitable to consider at length whether it was economic change, sometimes more, sometimes less dynamic, or political decisions and turning-points which constituted the outstanding sign-posts marking off stages of development. There is no common denominator by which to measure one against the other. Undoubtedly many threads of development have stretched almost without interruption across political turning-points; equally indisputably, others have thereat gained new importance and orientation. Changes of direction in economic and social development have had similar effects. Where one period ends and another begins depends on individual evaluation and presentation; there are no objectively compelling divisions. This was the case particularly since at no moment of time between 1815 and 1930 was there an all-embracing, purposive, and decisive determination of economic and socio-political principles, means, and objectives. A gradual increase and strengthening of the arsenal of economic and social policy and an extension of its range are characterized by a high degree of continuity in development.