How would your life be under communism? (Pre-read)
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East Germany (1949–1990), officially known as the GDR or DDR (German Democratic Republic or Deutsche Demokratische Republik), offers a unique chapter in 20th-century history. Behind the Iron Curtain, daily life was shaped by state control and Soviet influence, yet it thrived with distinct culture and innovation. Iconic Trabants, Plattenbau architecture, and a spirited sense of community defined an era of resilience and adaptability.
For the discussion, please read in advance Chapter 1 of Part V ("Society and Economy") from this book The Ideal World of Dictatorship: Daily Life and Party Rule in the GDR, 1971-1989 by Stefan Wolle. A pdf is here.
(Optionally, you can also read this piece which was written by the GDR authorities. This is a propaganda piece, so for balance purposes you are advised to read as well this piece by the CIA.)
Other meetups:
- Ted Kaczynski against Wokeism — Thursday August 8
- David Graeber asks: Do you have a Bullshit Job? — Wednesday August 7