feat: new essay Modern Atlas Shrugged 2

src/content/journal/2024/raycast.mdx

@@ -27,7 +27,7 @@ I use [Karabiner-Elements](https://karabiner-elements.pqrs.org/) to transform th
 
 My application navigation is a combination of <kbd>&#x2726;</kbd> plus a letter, like <kbd>&#x2726;</kbd> <kbd>b</kbd> for the [Brave](https://brave.com/) browser or <kbd>&#x2726;</kbd> <kbd>t</kbd> for [Things](https://culturedcode.com/things/), for example. I have 19 of these shortcuts for the apps I use all the time, the rest I open with Raycast over the search.
 
-I use Raycast inIn combination with a window manager (I use [AeroSpace](https://github.com/nikitabobko/AeroSpace)). AeroSpace allows to configure on which space the apps open. If you are using Apple Spaces, it is also possible to assign apps to specific spaces with a right-click on the application, then select Options from the menu.
+I use Raycast in combination with a window manager (I use [AeroSpace](https://github.com/nikitabobko/AeroSpace)). AeroSpace allows to configure on which space the apps open. If you are using Apple Spaces, it is also possible to assign apps to specific spaces with a right-click on the application, then select Options from the menu.
 
 Raycast is the only application with consistent app switching behavior. When I press my keyboard shortcut, it opens the app if it’s closed. If it’s open but not focused, or I’m in a different space, it moves me to that space and focuses on the app. And if I look at it, it hides the application.
 

src/content/journal/2025/modern-atlas-shrugged-1-signs-of-collapse.mdx

@@ -1,304 +0,0 @@
----
-title: "The Modern Atlas Shrugged: The Signs of Collapse"
-slug: modern-atlas-shrugged-1-signs-of-collapse
-date: 2025-05-19
-author: Stefan Imhoff
-description: Discover why Europe and Germany face economic decline, rising crime, and social division. Explore the roots of crisis and the lessons from Atlas Shrugged.
-cover: /assets/images/cover/modern-atlas-shrugged-1-signs-of-collapse.webp
-tags: ["book", "philosophy", "politics"]
-series: modern-atlas-shrugged
----
-
-The Western world, particularly Europe, is facing a decline and a concerning shift towards bureaucracy, authoritarianism, collectivism, and socialism. Many people sense that something is wrong, but few understand the underlying causes. This feeling of uncertainty and insecurity leads them to demand increased government control, a larger welfare state, and more laws and regulations, which are counterproductive and will ultimately worsen the situation. Many refuse to acknowledge this reality because they were born during a post-war period of economic growth and continue to consume mainstream propaganda that misleads them into believing that “everything is fine.”
-
-<Blockquote
-  author="Ayn Rand"
-  source="Atlas Shrugged"
-  sourceUrl="https://aynrand.org/novels/atlas-shrugged/"
->
-  You did not care to compete in terms of intelligence—you are now competing in terms of brutality.
-  You did not care to allow rewards to be won by successful production—you are now running a race in
-  which rewards are won by successful plunder. You called it selfish and cruel that men should trade
-  value for value—you have now established an unselfish society where they trade extortion for
-  extortion. Your system is a legal civil war, where men gang up on one another and struggle for
-  possession of the law, which they use as a club over rivals, till another gang wrests it from
-  their clutch and clubs them with it in their turn, all of them clamoring protestations of service
-  to an unnamed public’s unspecified good. You had said that you saw no difference between economic
-  and political power, between the power of money and the power of guns—no difference between reward
-  and punishment, no difference between purchase and plunder, no difference between pleasure and
-  fear, no difference between life and death. You are learning the difference now.
-</Blockquote>
-
-Everyone who has read Ayn Rand’s novel “Atlas Shrugged” and doesn’t consume state propaganda news notices the striking parallels to her 1957 work, as highlighted by [Elon Musk in this interview](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m_1MxQALZnQ).
-
-<Figure caption="Ayn Rand’s Atlas Shrugged Book Trailer" size="wide">
-  <YouTube id="NUn6JJsJroA" />
-</Figure>
-
-I first read Ayn Rand’s fiction in March 2023. Since then, I have [read numerous economic books](/beyond-the-bookshelf-2-books-2024/), explored [libertarian literature](/libertarianism/), and studied the Austrian School of Economics. I read as many works by Ludwig von Mises, Murray Rothbard, Friedrich Hayek, and Hans-Hermann Hoppe as possible.
-
-<Banner summary="⚠️ Spoilers Ahead" open>
-  This essay will be full of spoilers in case you haven’t read the book.
-</Banner>
-
-My favorite chapter from the book is Part 3, Chapter VII, “This is John Galt Speaking.” In this chapter, the ominous John Galt takes control of all broadcasting in the country and presents a four-hour argument that human reason and individual self-interest form the foundations of a moral and productive society. He rejects altruism and collectivism as destructive forces that enslave the capable to the incompetent. Galt asserts that the mind is the source of all value and calls on the “men of the mind”—the innovators and producers—to withdraw from a world that punishes their virtues, leading to its inevitable collapse. This chapter defends capitalism, personal freedom, and the pursuit of happiness through rational self-reliance.
-
-<Banner summary="John Galt’s Speech">
-  The speech is available in several versions on YouTube, which is a great alternative if you don’t
-  want to read the full book. However, reading the book would be worthwhile. There is also a
-  three-part low-budget movie series ([1](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ABjK0Qp6IRg),
-  [2](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fBn72UwYmQI),
-  [3](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HAOzT2_oxVU)), now available for free on the movie studio’s
-  YouTube channel. The best version of the speech is a 7-minute adapted and shortened version spoken
-  by the actor Greg Gomes.
-</Banner>
-
-<Figure caption="John Galt’s Speech">
-  <YouTube id="wseyWRBWzyM" />
-</Figure>
-
-The world of _Atlas Shrugged_ portrays a landscape of industrial decline, with factories closing across the country and essential products becoming scarce. The government nationalizes the private sector, implementing price controls and economic regulations. A crucial rail bridge, the Taggart Bridge, collapses due to substandard materials. Train schedules become unreliable, resulting in frequent derailments and accidents caused by poor maintenance and incompetent employees. One significant incident is the Taggart Tunnel disaster, which leads to the deaths of many passengers from coal smoke. New York City goes dark when the power grid fails.
-
-Many productive individuals mysteriously disappear. Incompetence is rising, and many positions are filled based on connections rather than merit. Sacrifice and need are valued more than achievement and productivity, while political interests influence scientific research.
-
-The socialist government is developing a secret weapon system called “Project X” and has initiated Directive 10-289, which freezes employment, production, and wages. The government justifies its increased control by citing the crisis, while successful individuals are blamed for societal problems.
-
-People use the phrase “Who is John Galt?” to express their frustration and anger at government policies. If you recognize these signs, congratulations! You are not alone. If you don’t, allow me to share my thoughts.
-
-<Figure caption="Who is John Galt?">
-  <Image
-    src="/assets/images/posts/who-is-john-galt.webp"
-    alt="A narrow, dirty alleyway at night, lined with tall brick buildings covered in colorful graffiti, one with says 'Who is John Galt?', and scattered with piles of trash, while a glowing city skyline is visible in the distance under a starry sky."
-  />
-</Figure>
-
-## Industrial and Economic Decline
-
-### Industrial Giants in Crisis
-
-Sixteen years ago, the economies of the European Union and the United States stood shoulder to shoulder, each a titan of global prosperity. Today, the US boasts a GDP of €25,5 trillion—50% larger than the EU’s €16,6 trillion. At the heart of Europe’s faltering fortunes lies Germany, once an industrial juggernaut, now a shadow of its former self. The International Monetary Fund ranks it last among the world’s top 30 economies, and it ended 2023 with a negative growth rate of 0.3% GDP. Germany has fallen from 6th in global competitiveness in 2014 to 24th in 2024. This decline is not only a national crisis—it’s a warning for Europe and the West. What went wrong? A toxic mix of energy missteps, industrial neglect, and excessive state control has dragged Germany into an economic mire, with ripple effects threatening the broader Western world.
-
-The statistics present a troubling scenario. Germany’s GDP decreased by 0.2% in 2024, and productivity growth has stalled. The IMF reduced its 2025 forecast by 0.5 points to just 0.3%, while the country’s long-term potential growth has halved from 1.4% to 0.7% over five years. In contrast, the US has seen its potential growth rise to 2.8%. Globally, Germany’s share of GDP has fallen from 5% to 4% over the past decade, while the US’s share increased from 22% to 26%. Domestically, the DAX index of export giants surged by 18.56% in 2024, masking the MDAX’s decline of 5.35%. Wealth per person has dropped to €68,000, leaving Germans poorer than Slovenians and ranking 30th worldwide. These figures are not only statistics; they signal distress from a nation losing its economic stability.
-
-<Figure>
-  <Image
-    src="/assets/images/posts/modern-atlas-shrugged-decline.webp"
-    alt="A golden, muscular figure stands confidently among ruined buildings, with dark clouds and sun rays shining through in the background."
-  />
-</Figure>
-
-Germany’s industrial strength is unraveling. The automotive sector, once a global leader, is stumbling—Volkswagen’s stock has dropped from €250 in 2021 to €86 in 2024. The steel, chemicals, and shipbuilding industries are also struggling as production declines. Family businesses, the backbone of the economy, are suffering: 20% plan job cuts in 2025, while only 16% intend to hire—the lowest rate since 2015. Investment is hesitant due to uncertainty and bureaucracy, with 62% of firms citing overregulation as a barrier. Job statistics reveal the situation: the car industry has shrunk to 97.5% of its 2021 workforce by 2024, while public administration has grown to 106%. Meanwhile, German companies are looking to Poland for lower costs, and tech firms are moving to the US. The industry isn’t just declining—it’s defecting.
-
-The economic decline seeps into society. The middle class shrinks, social mobility stagnates, and the lower classes sink deeper into poverty. Real estate is unstable as aging Boomers, who own most of it, will pass away—prices could implode within a decade. Trust erodes: satisfaction with the federal government plummeted from 60% in 2022 to 12% in 2024. A “dictatorship of opinion” silences dissent, and media illusions replace reality, driving people into escapism. Talent flees—90% of EU tech workers would move to the US for better pay (50% higher) and funding (five times more). In Berlin, startups face suspicion; founders are labeled “capitalist parasites.” Germany isn’t just losing wealth—it’s losing hope.
-
-Germany’s troubles resonate across Europe. The EU has no trillion-dollar companies, while the US has nine. Europe’s top 100 firms have dwindled from 46 in 2007 to 18 today, while China maintains nine. French President Emmanuel Macron warns, “The EU could die… we are over-regulating and under-investing.” Tesla’s Giga Berlin faced protests over “techno-colonialism,” a symptom of Europe’s anti-innovation mindset. Berlin’s startup scene avoids risk, while Silicon Valley embraces it. The result? A brain drain to the US and Southeast Asia, where opportunity outweighs red tape. Europe clings to its past—a “museum,” as one observer put it—while the future slips away.
-
-### When Bridges Fall: The Cost of Neglect
-
-One sign of collapse is the decline of infrastructure. In Germany, public infrastructure investment is critically low, ranking near the bottom in the EU. This situation is exacerbated by planning delays and a shortage of skilled labor. Despite the potential for course correction, experts suggest it may already be too late, raising concerns about Germany’s ability to catch up with other EU countries in infrastructure development.
-
-<Figure>
-  <Image
-    src="/assets/images/posts/modern-atlas-shrugged-bridge.webp"
-    alt="A golden, muscular figure kneels on rubble by a river, surrounded by damaged buildings, with a bridge and a dramatic sunrise or sunset in the background."
-  />
-</Figure>
-
-A prime example of this is the Carolabrücke in Dresden, which partially collapsed on September 11th, 2024, narrowly avoiding casualties during peak traffic hours. The left-wing city council majority rejected a crucial structural integrity review requested by the Free Voters, prioritizing political affiliations over public safety. More than half a year later, the debris remains uncleared, and the construction of a new bridge is not to be expected before 2035.
-
-Germany is facing a significant investment backlog. Schools require €55 billion, and roads need €48 billion, bringing the total to €186 billion, which represents a 12.4% increase from the previous year. This situation raises questions about how such a large investment gap exists despite high tax revenues, suggesting inefficiencies or misallocation in government spending. Similar to the U.S., a key reason for this is the lack of political will to prioritize infrastructure investment over other concerns. Germany invests in bicycle paths in Peru but lacks the political will to improve its infrastructure.
-
-Ironically, Germany is lagging behind Brazil and Peru in terms of average internet connection speeds. The LTE and 5G infrastructure is so underdeveloped that I have no internet connection in parts of the train route between Hamburg and my hometown, Wolfsburg.
-
-### Delays, Disruptions, and Decline
-
-While trains in China reach speeds of up to 800 km/h, in Germany, you are fortunate if they arrive at all. Deutsche Bahn exemplifies the inefficiencies and decline of the German railway system. Although it operates as a stock company, the state owns 100% of Deutsche Bahn AG, making it state-owned. In 2024, only 62.5% of long-distance trains arrived within six minutes of their scheduled time. Cancellations and disruptions are common, often due to ongoing construction and an aging infrastructure that requires extensive repairs. The company has launched a new initiative to improve punctuality and reliability, with plans to reduce delays by 2027 and achieve a punctuality rate of 75-80%.
-
-Cancellations are so frequent and problematic that anyone who has taken a train can share horror stories about their experiences. I have several stories, including instances where I was late by three hours or more due to snow, fallen trees, or suicides. I injured my leg when someone pushed me while I tried to board a replacement bus that arrived two hours after the trains stopped, as 500 people attempted to enter a bus with room for only 120.
-
-The train service has deteriorated to the point that some neighboring countries have halted connections from Germany. This includes not just individual trains but increasingly entire routes. Since April 29, 2025, the EC7 and EC9 connections from Germany have been terminated at Basel Central Station in Switzerland due to significant delays on German trains. In contrast, 93% of all trains in Switzerland arrive on time. The termination of these connections will remain in effect at least until December.
-
-Infrastructure decline is a critical issue. Decades of underinvestment have led to an aging network. The Rail Network Condition report for 2022, published by DB InfraGO, highlighted a year-on-year deterioration, with replacement costs rising by 75% due to inflation and global economic pressures. This decline is evident in outdated signaling systems and track conditions, which contribute to delays and operational inefficiencies. The network, spanning approximately 39,200 km, is operating at full capacity and cannot accommodate additional trains without significant upgrades.
-
-### Postage Up, Service Down
-
-Another company declining is the Deutsche Post AG or DHL Group. Although privatized in the 1990s, the state still holds nearly 17% through the KfW Bank. The company has been struggling with labor shortages, particularly in logistics and transportation. The shortage of truck drivers has led to delays in deliveries and increased costs for businesses. The company has also faced criticism for its treatment of workers, including low wages and poor working conditions, which have led to strikes and protests.
-
-More people than ever formally complained about the postal service last year. Over 44,000 complaints about the former state-owned company reached the Federal Network Agency in 2024, marking a 7% increase from the previous year and setting a record.
-
-Compared to 2021, the number of complaints has nearly tripled. While criticism affects the entire postal and parcel industry, 89% of all complaints are directed at market leader DHL and its mail division, Deutsche Post. Customers are not only voicing concerns about delivery issues but also about branches that closed during their stated opening hours. The company typically attributes these problems to staff shortages.
-
-However, the postal service is contributing to these issues itself. By the end of the year, the company plans to cut 8,000 jobs nationwide, which is over 4% of the 187,000 jobs in the German mail and parcel sector. Additionally, the post office significantly increased postage rates at the beginning of this year.
-
-## Educational Decline
-
-### The Competency Crisis: When Germany’s Talent Pipeline Runs Dry
-
-In 2015, Germany’s education system faced a sobering reality check when the PISA results revealed a sharp decline in students’ reading, math, and science competencies. A decade later, this downward trend continues, with reading scores plummeting since Angela Merkel’s 2015 open-door refugee policy. This is not just a statistical anomaly; it reflects a broader competency crisis that threatens Germany’s future. The nation is grappling with a combination of demographic, educational, and societal shifts that require urgent attention. What is driving this decline, and how did a country once renowned for its precision and intellect reach this point?
-
-Germany’s competency crisis starts with its demographics. For over 50 years, fertility rates have remained between 1.2 and 1.5 children per woman, well below the replacement level of 2.1. This has created an age pyramid with a large cohort of baby boomers, born in the 1960s, who are now nearing retirement. These workers, who form the backbone of Germany’s skilled trades and industries, will soon leave the labor market, taking decades of expertise with them. The result is a shrinking working-age population and a growing knowledge gap that younger generations are ill-prepared to fill.
-
-<Figure>
-  <Image
-    src="/assets/images/posts/modern-atlas-shrugged-education.webp"
-    alt="A teacher stands in front of a chalkboard filled with complex math equations, explaining to a classroom of attentive students."
-  />
-</Figure>
-
-Compounding this demographic challenge is a significant shift in education. While 90% of baby boomers trained in trade schools to become electricians, nurses, or police officers, today, 60% of high school graduates pursue college degrees, often in fields like business or social sciences. This educational expansion has lowered entry standards to accommodate average or below-average students, leaving vocational trades to recruit from the bottom third of the cognitive pool. Once drawing from a broad talent base, trades now struggle with less-qualified trainees, which erodes the quality of essential services. Germany’s economic engine, long fueled by skilled labor, is sputtering as a result.
-
-### Integration or Erosion?
-
-Migration adds another layer of complexity. Over 40% of children in Germany now come from migrant families—a diverse group, many of whom are well-integrated, but there has been a disproportionate rise in low-educated segments. This is the only growing demographic in an otherwise aging nation, which poses challenges to an education system struggling to adapt. The influx following Merkel’s 2015 policy has strained resources, contributing to the decline in PISA scores. Without targeted support, this growing population risks being left behind, amplifying the competency gap.
-
-The stakes are high as youth from migrant backgrounds approach 50% of Germany’s young population. Their educational outcomes will shape the nation’s future, yet integration efforts are faltering. PISA 2022 data reveals a significant gap in math scores between immigrant and native students. Language barriers, underfunded schools, and cultural differences hinder progress, leaving many migrant youths unprepared for higher education or skilled trades. This failure limits individual potential and jeopardizes Germany’s ability to maintain a competent workforce.
-
-The crisis is already evident. In classrooms, 25% of children leave primary school unable to read or write properly, according to an IGLU study. PISA confirms a decade-long decline in core subjects, yet standards continue to drop—30% of students now receive top grades despite weaker performance. Competition, once a driver of excellence, is now avoided. Beyond schools, this decline extends to the roads: 50% of candidates fail the theoretical driving test, a record low that psychologist Florian Becker attributes to “low IQ, Verdummung (dumbing down), and fehlende Selbstdisziplin (lack of self-discipline),” as reported by Focus.de.[^becker2025aa] Overprotective parenting and lowered expectations have left youth unprepared for practical responsibilities, signaling a broader erosion of capability.
-
-Too often, fingers point outward—to schools, teachers, or abstract “systems”—while ignoring internal factors like motivation and discipline. Shielding children from failure risks stunting their development. Meanwhile, the societal taboo against acknowledging cognitive differences or rewarding excellence stifles honest debate. Germany’s future depends on capable individuals, yet the current trajectory prioritizes comfort over competence.
-
-## Energy Crisis
-
-### Green Dreams, Harsh Realities
-
-One of the main drivers of the economic decline is Germany’s ideologically driven Energiewende policy, which aims to achieve climate neutrality by 2045. This policy seeks to transition the nation from fossil fuels and nuclear power to renewable energy sources like wind and solar. Since 1971, the energy mix has evolved significantly, with low-carbon alternatives—such as wind, solar, biofuels, and hydropower—gaining traction. However, a crucial decision made under Angela Merkel and finalized under Olaf Scholz phased out nuclear power entirely, reducing capacity from 23 GW to 0 GW by 2023. This move, influenced by public fears following Fukushima and pressure from the Green Party, aimed to satisfy environmentalists but left Germany vulnerable. Over the past 25 years, the nation has invested more than €500 billion in renewables, constructing 30,000 wind turbines and over 3 million solar panels—many sourced from China. Yet, the promise of a stable, green energy future remains unfulfilled.
-
-<Figure>
-  <Image
-    src="/assets/images/posts/modern-atlas-shrugged-energy.webp"
-    alt="A large golden hand blocks half of a radiant sun above a cityscape, dividing the scene into a warm side with wind turbines and a cool side with solar panels."
-  />
-</Figure>
-
-The fragility of this transition becomes evident during “Dunkelflaute”—periods of cold, windless, and cloudy weather when renewable energy production declines. In late 2024 and early 2025, Germany experienced several such events, with wind and solar output plummeting to as low as 0.7 GW out of a 56 GW capacity—just over 1%—on December 27, 2024. During a week-long Dunkelflaute across Central Europe, which intensified over two days, wind energy provided almost nothing, and solar energy contributed zero. Electricity demand surged, but renewables could not keep up. Despite its scale, Germany’s renewable infrastructure fails to meet demand when nature does not cooperate.
-
-The opposite problem, a recent term coined “Hellriese” (bright giant), occurs during summer when the sun shines, flooding the grid with excess energy. In Germany, rooftop power plants produce 40 GW of solar energy on sunny days, and they cannot be turned off. The grid cannot absorb this energy, resulting in overproduction and instability. Germany must pay other countries to take the excess energy, or regular power plants must be shut down. This process can take hours, as turbines continue to rotate for another 30 minutes after the power plant is turned off.
-
-### Record Imports, Soaring Costs
-
-With nuclear power eliminated, Germany turned to imports and fossil fuels to fill the gap. In 2024, the nation imported record amounts of nuclear-generated electricity from France, where plants achieved their highest output since 2019. Meanwhile, domestic coal and gas usage surged, covering 93.8% of demand during periods of low renewable energy. This reliance came at a steep price: electricity costs at the power exchange spiked to over €1156 per megawatt-hour—ten times the usual rate—forcing companies to temporarily halt production. Since 2000, electricity prices have risen by over 50%, reaching 35 euro cents per kWh by 2022, which has driven per-person consumption down since 2017. Households and industries now bear the burden of paying for two parallel systems—renewables and conventional backups—along with an expensive grid expansion, a cost structure that critics deem unsustainable.
-
-The system is on the brink of collapse. During a near-blackout event in 2024, imports and conventional plants nearly met the entire demand, while renewables contributed very little. Experts warned that a complete blackout in winter could destabilize the grid and shift public opinion, potentially affecting federal election outcomes. The loss of nuclear power increased this risk, as its steady output had previously helped alleviate such crises. The industry felt the strain most acutely: creeping deindustrialization, a key result of green policies aimed at CO₂ neutrality, accelerated as companies faced unbearable energy costs and production stoppages. Critics argue that this situation was self-inflicted—Germany chose this path, not external forces like Russia or the U.S., and is now paying the price.
-
-### Grid on the Brink: How Renewable Energy Undermines Grid Stability
-
-New regulations, such as the Solarspitzen-Gesetz (solar peak law), have contributed to the chaos. This law aims to manage solar surpluses on sunny days by mandating smart meters. However, it risks causing brownouts—regional shutdowns—when production exceeds demand. Additionally, it reduces compensation for solar producers without lowering costs for consumers. This shift toward state control and increased regulatory complexity, combined with failed smart meter rollouts and cybersecurity concerns, frustrates both providers and users. Meanwhile, the renewable energy fleet is aging: many wind turbines that have been operational for 20 years are nearing obsolescence, and their replacement could cost trillions. Germany’s dependency on China for new components deepens, exposing supply chain vulnerabilities and undermining energy sovereignty.
-
-Germany’s energy transition is struggling. Plans to increase wind capacity to 115 GW and solar capacity to 215 GW face skepticism, as they do not provide more energy when needed and further destabilize the grid. Storage remains a distant goal; buffering a week-long Dunkelflaute would require 10 TWh of capacity—equivalent to 200 nuclear plants—yet only 0.1% currently exists. The slow pace of fossil fuel reduction, projected to reach zero by 2473, undermines the urgency of climate goals. Industrial decline, soaring costs, and energy insecurity now define Germany’s trajectory. Some advocate for a return to nuclear power, but political inertia and green dogma prevail. Germany’s self-imposed wound—shutting down nuclear power—may lead to its downfall, serving as a cautionary tale of ideology overshadowing practicality.
-
-The fragility of the European power grid became evident in April 2025. Spain, Portugal, and southern France experienced a nationwide blackout due to a massive overload. Solar power production peaked at over 20 GW, rapidly injecting excess energy into the grid. Conventional power plants struggled as turbines accelerated instead of slowing down when energy demand dropped. The grid frequency rose above 50 Hz, creating an imbalance that triggered protective measures. Automatic systems disconnected power plants and isolated sections of the grid to prevent damage. This incident highlighted the grid’s reliance on renewable energy, which, lacking sufficient mechanical inertia, makes it more vulnerable to sudden energy shocks.
-
-A few days before the blackout, Repsol issued a mandatory stock market notice to inform investors about the risks associated with heavy reliance on solar energy. Spanish political leaders ignored warnings about energy issues, prioritizing ideology over practical concerns. Teresa Ribera, a key figure, shifted her stance from supporting nuclear energy to advocating for a clean transformation in the EU. She also contributed to the flooding in Valencia by preventing necessary maintenance for ecological reasons. One thing became painfully clear: photovoltaic systems and wind turbines cannot sustain the power grid alone, due to insufficient rotating mass. The blackout in Iberia could be a Chernobyl moment for renewable energy. This time, Europe was fortunate because enough black start-capable power plants were available. As a result, power could be restored after 12 hours. Next time, we may not be so lucky.
-
-## Societal Breakdown
-
-### Knife Attacks and Rising Violence
-
-Since Angela Merkel’s decision to permit an unlimited influx of immigrants in 2015, Germany has seen a significant increase in crime rates. In 2023, there were 21,000 reported knife attacks—nearly 60 per day. The online project [Messerinzidenz](https://messerinzidenz.de/) collects publicly available knife crime data and displays these attacks on a map daily. Nancy Faeser, the former Federal Minister of the Interior and Community, presented the Federal Crime Statistics (PKS), which reveal alarming figures and underscore the serious situation.
-
-Similar alarming trends are evident in crimes against sexual self-determination, which have surged from 30,000 to 80,000 per year since 2015. In 2023, group rapes in North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) showed that 13% of suspects had clearly German names, while 34% had clearly foreign names, despite foreigners making up only 16.1% of the population in NRW. This indicates an overrepresentation of non-Germans in these crimes.
-
-<Figure>
-  <Image
-    src="/assets/images/posts/modern-atlas-shrugged-knife-crime.webp"
-    alt="A golden figure kneels in the center of a cityscape, illuminated by the sun, while two shadowy figures on either side threaten with raised knifes."
-  />
-</Figure>
-
-Statistics on migrant violence from 2016 to 2022 reveal stark contrasts for selected crimes. For completed homicides, the numbers are 17 for Germans compared to 191 for immigrants; for attempted homicides, 329 versus 930; and for sexual offenses, 733 versus 19,097, according to BKA (Federal Criminal Police Office) reports.[^bka2025aa] Afghan nationals are notably overrepresented in serious crimes such as rape and murder, intensifying debates on migration and crime. Furthermore, it is not only a problem among adult criminals; according to the BKA, a girl is raped every three days by a 12- or 13-year-old. There are currently 688 registered sex offenders aged between 6 and 8.
-
-In 2023, 85,552 violent crimes were attributed to non-Germans out of a total of 248,700 offenses, accounting for 34.4%. This equates to approximately 234 daily incidents.
-
-During New Year’s Eve 2024, over 400 people were arrested in Berlin for attacking police officers. The German news magazine [Nius](https://www.nius.de/kriminalitaet/news/berlin-silvester-migranten-vornamen-verhaftungen/2676b9c5-4d31-4f86-87fa-a2ea83049028) obtained a list of the first names of the arrested individuals through a whistleblower within the police. The list revealed that 58.3% of the names sounded non-German (e.g., Abdul, Ahmed), while only 13.5% sounded German (e.g., Benjamin, Emil), suggesting cultural differences in offender profiles.
-
-The significant overrepresentation of non-Germans in crimes indicates cultural differences that cannot be solely explained by socio-economic factors. Other countries, such as Sweden, face similar integration issues and rising crime rates. Sweden is struggling with gang violence, bomb attacks, and child recruitment, reflecting broader migration challenges across Europe.
-
-### Terrorism on the Rise: How Islamist Attacks Shook Germany’s Sense of Security
-
-Additionally, Islamic terrorism has become a significant issue in Germany, with multiple attacks capturing international attention. In 2016, a truck was driven into a crowd at a Christmas market in Berlin, killing 12 and injuring 55. ISIS claimed responsibility for this attack. In 2024, another Christmas market was targeted by a car, resulting in 6 deaths and 299 injuries, motivated by Islamist beliefs. That same summer, a 25-year-old Afghan national named Sulaiman Ataee stabbed several people, including a police officer who was critically injured in the neck and died the same day from his injuries. On January 22, 2025, another knife attack occurred in Aschaffenburg, Bavaria, targeting a kindergarten group in a park. A 28-year-old Afghan man was arrested at the scene. The attacker killed a 2-year-old Moroccan boy and a 41-year-old man, with several others injured, including another child.
-
-Since the last WEF ranking in 2015, Germany has fallen 31 places in terms of security, now ranking 51st, behind Romania, Kuwait, Albania, Poland, and Tajikistan. The Australian Foreign Ministry rates Germany’s danger level as equivalent to that of Turkey and South Africa, reflecting international concerns. Chinese advisories warn travelers about specific ethnic groups.
-
-How does the government respond to these issues? By closing borders, deporting criminals, or addressing the root causes of immigration? Of course not. Instead, they have enacted laws that restrict law-abiding citizens, such as limiting the carrying of pocket knives and creating large “knife-free zones” in public spaces, trains, and buses, criminalizing regular citizens. The Berlin police department faced ridicule for proposing to revoke drivers’ licenses after six knife attacks within 24 months.
-
-When the government fails to protect its citizens, the “social contract” is broken, which can lead to vigilantism. The rise of gated communities indicates a societal shift toward private safety solutions in response to perceived state failure. In Cologne, investor Christian Ley is constructing a guarded complex with fences, gates, and surveillance, catering to affluent residents seeking safety amid rising violence. Cologne, the largest city in North Rhine-Westphalia and the fourth most populous city in Germany, has nearly 1.1 million inhabitants, with 24.3% of the population having a migration background.
-
-The significant increase in migration has not only raised crime rates and terror attacks but also had substantial economic and social impacts. Germany has absorbed a considerable portion of EU migration, with 6 million out of 14 million migrants arriving between 2013 and 2022, due to its open borders and generous welfare system. The country has struggled to accommodate such a large influx of people in a short time. Every aspect of daily life has worsened, from waiting times for administrative procedures to securing doctor appointments. Where I could get a dental checkup appointment a month in advance a few years ago, it now takes nearly six months.
-
-While socialist parties present immigration as the future and backbone of our economy, the reality is quite different. A significant number of young migrants lack the education needed to fill available jobs. Among 20-34-year-olds in 2023, 82.3% of Iraqis, 81.5% of Syrians, 78.3% of Afghans, and 49% of Turks lack vocational training, which predicts higher unemployment and welfare dependency. Additionally, 29.9% of Germans also lack qualifications, compounding the issue.
-
-### A House Divided
-
-Europe is more divided than ever. Even though some bureaucrats dream of a United States of Europe, this will never happen. The cultures, languages, and people are too different. Besides, the EU doesn’t want to create a federal system like the United States has with a constitution and 1st and 2nd amendment rights, but rather a centralized system that is more similar to the Soviet Union. Critics mock the EU as EUdSSR.
-
-The concept of a European state is more complex than just domestic trade and free travel; the countries involved are too diverse. Ideologically, we have progressive nations like France and Germany, alongside conservative ones such as Poland and Hungary, which hold vastly different views on migration, LGBTQ+ rights, and the rule of law. Financially, the countries are also divided. Wealthier nations like Germany and the Netherlands are net contributors, while poorer countries like Italy, Greece, and Spain face higher debt and unemployment, seeking more financial support from the EU.
-
-<Figure>
-  <Image
-    src="/assets/images/posts/modern-atlas-shrugged-division.webp"
-    alt="Two golden figures hold hands in front of dark clouds, separated by a jagged black lightning bolt under bright sun rays."
-  />
-</Figure>
-
-The EU comprises core countries and newer members, with 20 nations using the Euro while others maintain their currencies, resulting in varying economic policies and levels of integration. Some EU states serve as direct entry points for migrants and asylum seekers, while others cannot be accessed legally by land. Additionally, some countries are pro-US and critical of Russia, while others prefer greater autonomy and dialogue. Western and Northern nations advocate aggressively for climate action, whereas Eastern countries are slower to phase out coal and transition to green energy. We also see countries that prioritize joint defense, like France, contrasted with those that emphasize national sovereignty, such as Hungary and Poland.
-
-The European Union, under the leadership of Ursula von der Leyen, actively promotes the progressive ideas of specific countries, such as the Green Deal, an open border policy, and a confrontational stance against Russia. Countries that do not comply face fines and penalties. Potential candidates from right-wing parties are targeted. Marine Le Pen from France was excluded from the elections, Călin Georgescu’s election victory in Romania was annulled, and the AfD (Alternative for Germany) was labeled as “securely right-wing extremist.”
-
-The Euro devalues each year, and inflation is rampant. The EU has lost credibility, and the European Central Bank (ECB) is losing its independence. The ECB’s policies are increasingly influenced by political interests rather than economic stability, leading to a decline in confidence in the Euro. The ECB’s balance sheet has expanded significantly, raising concerns about inflation and the long-term sustainability of its policies. The Euro may face failure in the near future. The rushed introduction of Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) signals desperation, as the ECB attempts to regain control over monetary policy and combat inflation to prolong its Keynesian money policies. This move raises concerns about privacy and government surveillance, as digital currencies can be easily tracked and monitored. The introduction of CBDC does not address the problems facing the Eurozone; rather, it highlights deeper economic issues.
-
-The situation in Germany remains challenging. Thirty-six years after reunification, the country is more divided between East and West than it was when the Berlin Wall fell. The AfD (Alternative for Germany) has gained significant support in the East and is also growing in the West, making it the strongest party. This division is not only political; it reflects deeper cultural and ideological gaps that have persisted since reunification. However, the ideological divide between the AfD and other parties hinders the formation of a center-right coalition. The CDU (Christian Democratic Union) has broken all its pre-election promises and increased the debt by €1.5 trillion for rearmament, infrastructure, and ecological projects. They formed a coalition with the SPD (Social Democratic Party), the former leading party whose government collapsed prematurely, and continued the policies of the previous failed administration.
-
-Friedrich Merz, the new chancellor and a former Black Rock employee, understands that his party may cease to exist in the near future if it fails to deliver on its promises. He will face significant challenges in keeping these promises, as the socialist coalition partner will do everything possible to obstruct him. His election as chancellor was already embarrassing, as he became the first chancellor in the history of the republic to fail to secure a majority in the first round of voting. He needed additional support from the former SED—the Wall Murderer Party—to finally be elected chancellor in the second round.
-
-When examining economic maps of Germany, the East remains significantly poorer than the West. The average income in the East is about 20% lower than in the West. In many cities, such as Hamburg, salaries exceed the national average by 10%. The annual household income in the West ranges from €20,000 to €25,000, while in the East, it falls between €17,500 and €20,000. Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania has the lowest household income in Germany, with figures between €15,000 and €17,500. This region also has the highest percentage of voters for the AfD, as seen in the city of Groß Luckow, where 74.7% of the votes went to the AfD. In contrast, the lowest support was in the district of Sternenschanze in Hamburg, with only 2.8% of the votes in the last elections.
-
-The east of Germany is worse off in every regard. Unemployment in the west is in the low single digits, while in the east it reaches up to 16%. Workers in the east put in 69 more hours annually (1,350 hours per year compared to 1,281 hours in the west) but earn less. Life satisfaction is significantly lower in the east, and even car ownership lags behind. The effects of 41 years of socialism are still evident today, despite over €1,000 billion having been invested in the east since the fall of the wall.
-
-It is no surprise that the pain of Germany’s decline is felt most acutely in the east. The AfD has capitalized on this discontent, gaining support from those who feel abandoned by the political elite. Additionally, the former SED (Sozialistische Einheitspartei Deutschlands), now known as “Die Linke” (The Left), remains strong in the East. This strength can be attributed to two different mindsets: “Ostalgie” (nostalgia for the East) and the lingering memory of a totalitarian dictatorship. While some long for the days when the nanny state cared for everyone, others remember the state’s repression, including the imprisonment of dissidents and the killing of over 1,000 people attempting to flee the socialist GDR. East Germans serve as the canary in the coal mine, as they are the first to recognize similarities to the former GDR amid rising authoritarianism in Germany, eroding civil rights, declining free speech, and the economic consequences of central planning.
-
-While the western part of Germany predominantly voted for the CDU, cities leaned towards the Green Party or socialist parties. In contrast, the East was divided between left-wing and right-wing socialist parties. The AfD is not a unified party; it encompasses three distinct factions. The left wing, led by party leader Alice Weidel, is partly market libertarian and advocates for a Swiss model of participation. The right wing, led by Björn Höcke, is a nationalist faction that promotes a new form of nationalism with some socialism. Additionally, many conservatives who were previously in the CDU have joined the AfD. The party is not a monolith but rather a collection of diverse ideas and ideologies. However, they are united in one key aspect: the rejection of the current government and its policies.
-
-The significant estrangement of many Germans from their culture has led to a notable resurgence of nationalism. On TikTok, many young people strongly identify as German. A new type of woman has emerged, the “Ostmulle,” who take pride in their heritage and openly express their love for their country. They are often attractive young blonde women or heavily tattooed and pierced individuals. The rise of the AfD is inevitable, as it resonates strongly with young people in both the East and West, who feel the effects of economic decline and unregulated immigration most acutely. Meanwhile, the boomer generation, which will pass away in the next few decades, tends to vote very left-wing and green, supporting groups like “Omas gegen Rechts” (Grannies against the right). In contrast, the younger generation is divided: half are aggressively woke and green activists, gluing themselves to the streets and vandalizing art with paint, while the other half is becoming more conservative, religious, and nationalistic.
-
-But not only is the country divided politically, it is divided on nearly any topic. While the divide is not clear by group in every topic, they seem to align with [Thomas Sowell’s](/thomas-sowell/) view of the world, with the left representing the “unconstrained” (utopian) vision and the right representing the “constrained” (tragic) vision.
-
-Followers of the utopian vision view human nature as malleable, believing that people can develop morally and intellectually to achieve higher ideals, sometimes even perfection. They focus on intentions and aspirations for social improvement, emphasizing what should be rather than what is. They see social problems as solvable with the right knowledge, will, or commitment, leading to deliberate, categorical interventions and solutions. They value flexibility, direct action, and collective decisions aimed at achieving morally preferable outcomes, even if it means overriding existing processes or constraints.
-
-In contrast, followers of the tragic vision see human beings as inherently flawed and limited, both morally and intellectually. They believe that social evils and conflicts arise from these inherent limitations, not merely from poor institutions or a lack of effort. They argue that society must acknowledge these permanent limits. Progress involves finding workable trade-offs rather than pursuing perfection; attempts to achieve ideal outcomes can be futile and counterproductive. They emphasize evolved traditions, systemic processes (such as markets and families), and the importance of incentives, rather than relying solely on rational planning or moral intentions. Justice and freedom are viewed in terms of fair processes and the absence of arbitrary power, rather than guaranteed outcomes. They advocate for incremental social change, as categorical or sweeping changes often overlook complexities and lead to unintended consequences.
-
-<Figure caption="Snicklink: The greatest psyop of all time.">
-  <Image
-    src="/assets/images/posts/sniklink-psyop.webp"
-    alt="The image is split into two parts. The top part shows a group of wealthy men in old-fashioned suits and top hats, laughing together. The bottom part is a grid of cartoon-style drawings showing pairs of people angrily arguing, each pair with different symbols above them representing various political, social, or cultural issues."
-  />
-</Figure>
-
-The country is divided on many issues, making it difficult to keep track: climate change, energy policies, immigration, gender ideology and LGBTQ+ matters, COVID-19 vaccines and lockdowns, Donald Trump, Elon Musk, free speech, religion, the Ukraine war, the Israel-Palestine conflict, meat consumption, language, education, and even the concept of “freedom” itself. While the left was the peaceful faction in the 1970s, it has now become authoritarian and collectivist. They demand censorship against “hate speech” and “misinformation,” call for rearmament, and even advocate for open war with Russia, all while promoting a new form of moralizing authoritarianism. The terms “Nazi,” “Fascist,” and “Hitler” are used so frequently that they have lost their meaning. They support globalist agendas like the sustainable development goals, Agenda 2030, and plans for a one-world government, pushed forward by organizations such as NATO, the UN, WHO, and the WEF. While many people might still have diverse opinions on topics, it has become nearly impossible to voice opinions without risking the loss of friendships, jobs, or even being reported to the reporting centers. The left has become the new authoritarian faction, and the right has become the new peaceful faction.
-
-A survey by Datapraxis and YouGov, conducted across all European countries, reveals shocking results. As of 2021, only about 11% of Germans “feel free” to speak openly, meaning they believe they can express themselves without fear of repercussions. This figure has dropped from 68% in 2019 to its lowest point ever recorded.
-
-The divide extends even between genders. A striking [article](https://archive.is/PSONZ) in the Financial Times from January 2024 examined how the perspectives of women and men aged 18 to 30 have evolved since the 1990s. The article compares several countries in the East and West, presenting diagrams for South Korea, the USA, Germany, and the UK. In Germany and the US, men have become slightly more conservative over time, while women have become more progressive by 20 to 30 points. In the UK, men have become 20 points more progressive, while for women it increased by 50 points. In South Korea, women have become 30 points more progressive, while men have become 20 points more conservative. The gender divide encompasses issues such as sexual harassment, immigration, and racial justice. This ideological split could have long-term societal implications, potentially influencing political landscapes, marriage rates, and social dynamics.
-
-While it may initially seem that men have issues with women becoming more independent, there are other explanations. The modern world has disconnected people, particularly women, from the real dangers of life. A world built and maintained by men—where in some jobs, men comprise 90% or more—creates the illusion of a consequence-free environment. Additionally, women tend to be more empathetic. While it is natural and beneficial for them to direct this empathy toward their offspring, family, and community, many women, particularly childless women, extend this empathy to the entire world, including strangers, animals, and nature. Dr. Gad Saad, a professor of marketing at Concordia University, coined the term “suicidal empathy” to describe this phenomenon. He argues that it results from the modern world’s disconnect from reality. This form of empathy can lead to a misunderstanding of the real dangers and consequences of certain ideologies and policies, ultimately causing societal harm.
-
-This phenomenon is evident on social media and in the news, featuring numerous horrifying stories about independent women traveling in dangerous places like India, Africa, or the Middle East, where they become victims of harassment, rape, or even beheading. It also appears in the support for risky policies such as open borders, which allow entry to individuals who are anti-Semitic, anti-gay, and suppress women in their cultures. The result is bizarre groups like “Queers for Palestine,” whose members would be thrown off roofs or hanged from cranes just 30 minutes after arriving in Palestine.
-
-Cem Özdemir, the former minister of agriculture and member of the Green Party, was confronted with his party’s open border policies in 2024, when his daughter, already a victim of occasional racism, was sexualized by migrants.
-
-Recently, there was a trend where women were asked whether they would prefer to meet a man or a bear alone in the forest. Most women chose the bear, highlighting how disconnected they have become from real danger.
-
-The widespread support for the LGBTQ+ movement, especially the Trans and Queer movements, is shortsighted. At its least harmful, it threatens women’s sports and reduces opportunities for biological women. In more toxic forms, it allows predators access to protected spaces such as women’s shelters, bathrooms, and changing rooms, as well as access to children in kindergartens and schools. The severe misuse becomes apparent weeks or months after a country introduces these new “privileges.” Criminal men switch their gender and rape women in women’s prisons, while trans individuals start suing companies or individuals for dead naming or to gain access to certain spaces. In its most harmful form, this movement causes permanent and irreversible damage to young children. As Jordan Peterson states, it is a butchery that is as bad, if not worse, than eugenics or lobotomies.
-
-## Conclusion
-
-In conclusion, Germany’s and Europe’s decline reflects a deeper crisis beyond economics—one rooted in cultural division, overregulation, and the erosion of individual responsibility and merit. As bureaucracy expands and ideological policies override practical concerns, trust in institutions and social cohesion falter. The result is a society marked by stagnation, rising conflict, and a loss of hope for the future.
-
-Without a renewed commitment to personal freedom, open debate, and pragmatic solutions, these trends will only worsen. The warnings of _Atlas Shrugged_ resonate today: when achievement is penalized and mediocrity rewarded, decline becomes inevitable. Only by facing uncomfortable realities and valuing competence and liberty can Europe hope to change course.
-
-<Banner summary="⏳ Next part" open>
-  This is the first part of a series of three parts. The next part will be released in one week.
-</Banner>
-
-[^becker2025aa]: Prof. Dr. Becker, Florian (2025): [Psychologe erklärt, warum junge Menschen „zu blöd zum Autofahren“ sind](https://www.focus.de/auto/ratgeber/kosten/neue-tuev-zahlen-psychologe-sagt-warum-junge-menschen-zu-bloed-zum-autofahren-sind_id_259760526.html)
-
-[^bka2025aa]: Bundeskriminalamt (2025): [Polizeiliche Kriminalstatistik, Nichtdeutsche Tatverdächtige nach Alter und Geschlecht](https://bka.de/SharedDocs/Downloads/DE/Publikationen/PolizeilicheKriminalstatistik/2024/Bund/Tatverdaechtige/BU-TV-17-T50-TV-nichtdeutsch_xls.xlsx?__blob=publicationFile&v=2)

src/content/journal/2025/modern-atlas-shrugged-1-signs-of-decline.mdx

@@ -299,10 +299,6 @@ In conclusion, Germany’s and Europe’s decline reflects a deeper crisis beyon
 
 Without a renewed commitment to personal freedom, open debate, and pragmatic solutions, these trends will only worsen. The warnings of _Atlas Shrugged_ resonate today: when achievement is penalized and mediocrity rewarded, decline becomes inevitable. Only by facing uncomfortable realities and valuing competence and liberty can Europe hope to change course.
 
-<Banner summary="⏳ Next part" open>
-  This is the first part of a series of three parts. The next part will be released in one week.
-</Banner>
-
 [^becker2025aa]: Prof. Dr. Becker, Florian (2025): [Psychologe erklärt, warum junge Menschen „zu blöd zum Autofahren“ sind](https://www.focus.de/auto/ratgeber/kosten/neue-tuev-zahlen-psychologe-sagt-warum-junge-menschen-zu-bloed-zum-autofahren-sind_id_259760526.html)
 
 [^bka2025aa]: Bundeskriminalamt (2025): [Polizeiliche Kriminalstatistik, Nichtdeutsche Tatverdächtige nach Alter und Geschlecht](https://bka.de/SharedDocs/Downloads/DE/Publikationen/PolizeilicheKriminalstatistik/2024/Bund/Tatverdaechtige/BU-TV-17-T50-TV-nichtdeutsch_xls.xlsx?__blob=publicationFile&v=2)

src/content/journal/2025/modern-atlas-shrugged-2-looters-in-action.mdx

@@ -0,0 +1,329 @@
+---
+title: "The Modern Atlas Shrugged: The Looters in Action"
+slug: modern-atlas-shrugged-2-looters-in-action
+date: 2025-05-26
+author: Stefan Imhoff
+description: Explore how EU overregulation, surveillance, and welfare state policies echo Atlas Shrugged, stifling innovation and freedom across Europe and Germany.
+cover: /assets/images/cover/modern-atlas-shrugged-2-looters-in-action.webp
+tags: ["book", "philosophy", "politics"]
+series: modern-atlas-shrugged
+---
+
+In “Atlas Shrugged,” the looters are depicted as politicians, bureaucrats, and businessmen who exploit government power to seize resources from productive people to redistribute them, justifying their actions with collectivist rhetoric.
+
+<Blockquote
+  author="Ayn Rand"
+  source="Atlas Shrugged"
+  sourceUrl="https://aynrand.org/novels/atlas-shrugged/"
+>
+  When you see that trading is done, not by consent, but by compulsion—when you see that in order to
+  produce, you need to obtain permission from men who produce nothing—when you see that money is
+  flowing to those who deal, not in goods, but in favors—when you see that men get richer by graft
+  and by pull than by work, and your laws don’t protect you against them, but protect them against
+  you—when you see corruption being rewarded and honesty becoming a self-sacrifice—you may know that
+  your society is doomed.
+</Blockquote>
+
+“Directive 10-289” is one of the most controversial examples in the novel. It freezes all employment and prohibits workers from leaving their jobs. Additionally, it mandates that production levels remain unchanged; all businesses must produce the same amount as before. All patents and innovations must be surrendered to the government.
+
+The “Anti-Dog-Eat-Dog Rule” bans “destructive competition” and is used to undermine Dan Conway’s Phoenix-Durango railroad to protect established companies.
+
+“The Equalization of Opportunity Bill” restricts individuals to owning only one business, forcing Hank Rearden to divest his ore mines and coal operations.
+
+The government nationalizes all railroad companies and develops “Project&nbsp;X” using stolen technology as a tool for coercion. Steel producers are compelled to supply steel based on “need” rather than market principles, regardless of their ability to pay. Despite its superior qualities, Rearden Metal faces production limits because it is accused of having “unfair advantages,” which prevents it from harming competitors. Hank Rearden is prosecuted for selling his metal to customers of his choice. As the story unfolds, the government increasingly resorts to blackmail, coercion, and even torture.
+
+## Government Overreach
+
+### The Absurdities of Overregulation
+
+The European Union, which started as a free trade zone, has transformed into a bureaucratic [leviathan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leviathan) that intrudes into every aspect of life. It has become a tool for the wealthy elite to maintain their power and wealth at the expense of ordinary people. There is no area of life that the EU does not seek to control. From how people live and what they eat to how they manage their health, heat their homes, and choose their cars, there is likely a task force or group advocating for regulations on every conceivable issue. This often occurs against the wishes of the overwhelming majority of European citizens who reject these measures.
+
+<Blockquote author="Jean-Claude Juncker, Former President of the European Commission">
+  We decide something, then put it out there, and wait for a while to see what happens. If there’s
+  no outcry or uproar because most people don’t even understand what’s been decided, then we move
+  forward—step by step, until there’s no turning back.
+</Blockquote>
+
+The EU is blindly and authoritatively adhering to beliefs about global warming and constantly intervening in the free market to promote its ideology. For example, it banned non-clear (frosted) bulbs and clear bulbs over 100 W starting in 2009. In 2012, it prohibited retailers from selling 40-watt and 25-watt incandescent bulbs. Between 2016 and 2018, it banned halogen bulbs and significantly intervened in the free market economy.
+
+The European Union has mandated that all mobile phones, tablets, and cameras sold in the EU must use USB-C charging ports by the end of 2024. As a result, Apple has been forced to replace its lightning connectors. While this may seem like a push for standardization, it could harm customers eventually. Companies may hesitate to invest in new connector technologies because regulations often lag behind innovation. Consequently, we might still be using USB-C in 50 years due to regulatory interference in the market.
+
+<Figure>
+  <Image
+    src="/assets/images/posts/modern-atlas-shrugged-regulations.webp"
+    alt="A golden muscular figure stands in the center with a chain around his waist, surrounded by faceless businessmen holding papers and a key, against a backdrop of tall buildings and radiant sunlight."
+  />
+</Figure>
+
+Another consumer product affected by bureaucratic intervention was the EU vacuum cleaner power regulation introduced in 2014. Initially, the limit was set at 1,600 watts but was later reduced to 900 watts. The regulation also established noise limits of 80 dB and introduced performance requirements. Critics argue that consumers now need to vacuum longer to achieve the same cleaning power, making it particularly challenging to remove pet hair.
+
+Additionally, there was an attempt to regulate the shape and size of cucumbers under Commission Regulation (EEC) No. 1677 / 88, which specified that cucumbers should be 30 cm long with a maximum curvature of 10 mm per 10 cm. These specific marketing standards were abolished in 2009 as part of a broader effort to reduce unnecessary food waste and simplify regulations.
+
+The absurd regulations that make headlines are just the tip of the iceberg. EU Regulation No. 852 / 2004 introduced hygiene standards for food products to ensure safety and quality throughout the supply chain. However, it has faced criticism for being overly prescriptive and burdensome, leading to increased costs for businesses and reduced competitiveness in the global market. These rules also affect rural women, preventing them from selling their cakes at local events due to the fear of being fined for non-compliance.
+
+Another significant regulation took effect in December 2024, requiring detailed information on wood products, such as books, to ensure they are deforestation-free. This includes HS codes, the country of wood origin, geographical coordinates of the wood’s source, production date, and a deforestation-free certification. Compliance costs may lead to a decline in paper books.
+
+A particularly controversial regulation has recently made headlines, raising concerns about food safety, political control, and the impact on local agriculture: the EU’s new regulation on insect-based food. This regulation allows the addition of insect larvae flour to various foods, including bread, pizza, and chocolate. Up to 5 grams of common house crickets can be added to 100 grams of certain meat products. However, EU regulations prohibit adding insects to animal food, creating a contradiction with the new regulation on insect-based food. Critics argue that this new regulation was introduced to handle the challenge of removing insects from food caused by strict pesticide regulations.
+
+The EU is actively combating smoking. After an initial attempt to ban smoking in public places failed, the EU is now advocating for a ban using “all means possible.” This reflects a common pattern in the EU’s authoritarian approach to controlling its citizens’, their behavior, and their choices. If a proposed regulation or ban fails, they simply try again until they succeed.
+
+### How EU Policy Undermines Europe’s Food Security
+
+The European Union is engaged in an ongoing battle with farmers. Regulations concerning fertilizers, and agricultural practices are making it increasingly difficult for farmers to produce food and compete in the global market. The EU Fertilizing Products Regulation (EU) 2019 / 1009 took effect on July 16, 2022, replacing the previous regulation from 2003. This new regulation expands the scope to include organic, organomineral, and secondary raw material-based fertilizers, in addition to traditional mineral fertilizers. Farmers must comply with hundreds of rules and regulations, which often conflict with one another, complicating adherence. Drones are used to monitor compliance with planting regulations and enforce adherence automatically.
+
+Since late 2023, European farmers have been protesting across the continent due to rising production costs, particularly for fuel and fertilizer, while facing declining incomes and product prices. They oppose the EU environmental regulations from the Green Deal, which impose costly burdens without adequate compensation for farmers. Cheap agricultural imports from Ukraine, which do not have to follow the strict EU regulations, are flooding the market and driving down prices by 40%.
+
+### The War on Wheels: The Push to Confine and Control Citizens
+
+The EU is waging a war on individual mobility with its ongoing attacks on cars. Its latest initiative, innocuously titled “Updated Rules for Safer Roads, Less Air Pollution, and Digital Vehicle Documents,” is marketed as a step toward improved public safety and environmental stewardship. However, beneath the surface, it represents another move in a coordinated plan that aligns with the World Economic Forum’s vision—“You’ll own nothing and be happy”—and the United Nations’ Agenda 2030 sustainability goals. The EU’s Transport Commissioner, Apostolos Tzitzikostas, claims a noble mission: to halve road deaths and serious injuries by 2030. On paper, who could object? In practice, however, these rules focus less on safety and more on control and the gradual erosion of personal mobility.
+
+<Figure>
+  <Image
+    src="/assets/images/posts/modern-atlas-shrugged-dark-figure.webp"
+    alt="A faceless hooded figure tries to take the wheel of a golden muscular man and in front of city buildings and a radiant sun."
+  />
+</Figure>
+
+Consider the following numbers: In 2024, Germany recorded only 2,780 road traffic deaths, the third lowest since 1953. In contrast, violent knife attacks resulting in serious injuries totaled 8,160 in 2022, three times higher than traffic fatalities. Despite these statistics, Brussels remains focused on cars, particularly on the “challenges posed by unsafe and aging vehicles.” They have now introduced a plan requiring every car over ten years old to pass annual inspections. This expensive and inconvenient process will compel many to scrap reliable vehicles. Since half of Germany’s cars are over ten years old, this measure effectively targets the working and middle classes who depend on older, affordable vehicles.
+
+Accident statistics indicate that human errors—such as turning mistakes, failure to yield, tailgating, speeding, and impaired driving—are the main causes of road accidents, rather than vehicle age. Nevertheless, the EU justifies its crackdown by promising to “save 7,000 lives and prevent 65,000 serious injuries” by 2050. This claim seems unconvincing in light of the actual causes of accidents.
+
+What’s truly at stake is independence. The unmonitored, unbugged private car represents one of the last bastions of personal freedom, much like cash in the digital age. The EU’s war on cars is a war on autonomy. New mandatory digital “Driver Monitoring” systems enable authorities to restrict movement, ration kilometers, and track every journey, transforming vehicles into rolling surveillance devices. The transition to “Software Defined Vehicles” and electric cars replaces robust, repairable machines with complex, expensive, and tightly controlled systems—far removed from the practical cars of the past.
+
+Meanwhile, regulatory and financial pressures are mounting. Higher taxes, insurance costs, parking fees, and increasingly strict emissions rules are making car ownership less affordable. Even obtaining a driver’s license is becoming prohibitively expensive, and older drivers must undergo regular tests to justify their continued mobility. In Germany, innovative punishments—such as revoking licenses for unpaid child support—set a precedent for further restrictions based on social compliance.
+
+From the authorities’ perspective, car use is tolerated only if it serves the needs of the state. The ideal scenario is the “15-minute city,” where citizens are confined to small zones, work from home, and rely on digital surveillance. The EU’s relentless push for control, masked as concern for safety and the environment, is more about limiting citizens’ freedom to move, own, and make their own decisions.
+
+### Central Planning in the Digital Age
+
+Lately, the EU has introduced numerous new regulations, including the AI Act, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), the AI Liability Directive, the Digital Services Act (DSA), the Digital Markets Act (DMA), and the EU Accessibility Act. While each regulation may offer valuable concepts, they collectively stifle innovation and impose excessive costs on businesses. Until mid-2025, every company in the EU must migrate all their digital products to comply with the EU Accessibility Act. This presents a significant financial burden, estimated to range from €28 billion to €70 billion.
+
+The DSA, in particular, is used as a tool to control the internet and limit freedom of speech. It is no wonder that there is a lack of innovation and large companies in Europe. Bureaucrats seem to focus solely on regulation.
+
+<Pullquote text="America innovates, China replicates, Europe regulates." />
+
+The European Union has become an unwieldy bureaucratic apparatus that stifles innovation and imposes excessive costs on businesses. It regulates cookie banners on websites and plastic caps on bottles while suffocating markets with central planning, regulations, and bureaucracy. The EU employs 58,000 people, and the cost of transporting staff between Brussels and Strasbourg totals 114 million euros per year. The annual administrative budget to maintain this bureaucracy is 11.3 billion euros, representing 6% of the EU’s total budget.
+
+### The Public Sector
+
+Across Europe, the public sector has emerged as a colossal employer, funded largely by taxpayers. In Germany, the state employs over 5.2 million people, making it the nation’s largest employer. This number has climbed steadily from 4.7 million in 2010 to 5.2 million by 2025, signaling a growing reliance on government jobs. Among Germany’s top 25 employers, five are directly state-owned, including Deutsche Bahn (100% federally owned), while others like Volkswagen (with 20% voting shares held by Lower Saxony) reflect significant state influence. Roughly half of the top 10 employers are state-affiliated, including public services at federal, state, and municipal levels, as well as social insurance agencies.
+
+This trend isn’t unique to Germany. Throughout the EU, public sector jobs often outnumber private sector opportunities, fostering stability but also dependency. Rand’s vision of a “mixed economy”—where government encroaches on private enterprise—finds an echo here, as the state’s dominance in employment reshapes economic priorities.
+
+### Economic Costs and Inefficiency
+
+The financial toll of bureaucracy is staggering. In Germany, personnel costs in the federal budget jumped from 6.1% in 2021 to an estimated 9.7% in 2024, yet essential services like healthcare remain understaffed, with only 210,000 of the 5.2 million public employees in critical roles. The annual cost of bureaucratic red tape is estimated at €146 billion, a burden that disproportionately hits small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)—the lifeblood of the economy. These firms struggle to comply with a maze of regulations, echoing the plight of Rand’s fictional innovators like Hank Rearden, crushed by government overreach.
+
+The EU amplifies this burden. Elon Musk, speaking at the 2025 WELT Economic Summit, called the EU headquarters in Brussels a “cathedral of bureaucracy,” pointing to the added layer of complexity it imposes on national and provincial rules. Despite a smaller administrative footprint than the U.S., the EU’s directives deepen the regulatory quagmire, frustrating businesses and citizens alike.
+
+### Tax Code Complexity: A Growing Web
+
+Bureaucratic sprawl extends to tax systems. Over two decades, France and Germany have doubled the word count of their tax codes, turning compliance into a labyrinthine ordeal. This complexity fuels a vast network of tax authorities and advisors, further bloating the public sector. The OECD’s push for tax harmonization has exacerbated this trend, aligning Europe’s tax systems in a web of intricacy. Advocates for a flat tax argue it could slash bureaucracy, but opposition citing equity concerns stalls reform.
+
+This pattern is echoed across the European Union. In Italy, businesses often face overlapping and sometimes contradictory tax rules at the regional and national levels, leading to frequent disputes and administrative headaches. Spain’s tax system, riddled with exceptions and special regimes for autonomous communities, demands constant interpretation and adjustment from both taxpayers and officials. In the Netherlands, incremental changes have led to a sprawling tax code that requires even small enterprises to seek professional help for basic filings. The introduction of EU-wide regulations, such as the DAC6 directive on tax transparency, has imposed additional layers of documentation and reporting, further complicating compliance for cross-border activities. Even routine processes, like reclaiming VAT across member states, involve intricate forms and lengthy verification procedures. Critics note that this administrative complexity not only increases costs but also creates uncertainty, discouraging investment and innovation throughout the EU.
+
+### A Modern-Day Big Brother
+
+The European Union is increasingly infringing on the autonomy of its citizens through regulations and surveillance. Germany is a leader in surveillance, actively pursuing user data from tech giants. Over the past decade, German authorities have requested information on 709,400 accounts—seven times the global per-person average. With 850 requests per 100,000 residents, Germany ranks second only to the United States, far surpassing Austria (136 requests) and Switzerland (245 requests per 100,000 citizens). In 2022 alone, requests surged by 38%, with a 65.4% response rate from tech companies. For example, Apple complied with 83% of German requests, up from 75% in 2016. This relentless data collection indicates a state eager to scrutinize every aspect of its citizens’ digital lives.
+
+<Figure>
+  <Image
+    src="/assets/images/posts/modern-atlas-shrugged-surveillance.webp"
+    alt="A golden human figure stands behind bars in a city, with surveillance cameras in the clouds watching from above as sun rays shine outward."
+  />
+</Figure>
+
+The German Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (Verfassungsschutz) amplifies these concerns. Since Thomas Haldenwang took over in 2018, the agency has accumulated 485,000 datasets of personal information. Critics label it “Stasi 2.0,” referencing the legacy of the East German secret police and its extensive surveillance. Is this a “defensive democracy” or the foundation of a surveillance state? Public unease grows as historical parallels clash with modern realities. They even have an extensive dossier on the former president of the Verfassungsschutz, Hans-Georg Maaßen, who served from 2012 to 2018. He was dismissed from his position due to public statements regarding false claims of far-right attacks on migrants in Chemnitz, which were later proven to be false by a court, as Maaßen had claimed. Since then, Maaßen has been categorized as an enemy of the state, and they have started collecting material to use against him.
+
+Germany’s influence extends beyond its borders, shaping policies across the EU. Under the Digital Services Act (DSA), effective since October 2022, Germany leads in requests to platforms like Meta, reflecting its strict approach to online content regulation. Human Rights Watch has identified Germany’s 2021 surveillance laws as a threat to privacy, yet the country continues to advocate for stricter digital oversight.
+
+The EU’s surveillance saga is a decades-long struggle between security and liberty. In 2006, the Data Retention Directive required telecom providers to store user data for up to two years to combat serious crime. However, in 2014, the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) struck it down, citing its disproportionate invasion of privacy. Despite this, the EU persisted. A 2016 EU-US data-sharing agreement aimed to balance law enforcement needs with privacy, while countries like Germany and France expanded national surveillance laws after the 2015 terror attacks—moves often criticized for their breadth.
+
+In 2021, the EU tightened export controls on surveillance technology to curb abuses abroad, but domestic practices remain contentious. The 2023 Child Sexual Abuse Regulation (CSAR) proposal suggests further monitoring, underscoring a pattern: each setback spurs new attempts to entrench state power.
+
+Post-2025, the EU’s surveillance ambitions may intensify. Proposals for encryption backdoors threaten secure communications and could revive mass telecom surveillance. Harmonized data retention laws might reappear, disguised as “technology-neutral” solutions to security threats. While export controls on surveillance technology may tighten, domestic use remains contentious. The EU’s ongoing struggle between security and privacy—enshrined in its Charter of Fundamental Rights—promises further legislative battles.
+
+It is unlikely that the rules applied to you will also be enacted for politicians like Ursula von der Leyen. She has faced scrutiny over her use of SMS in two significant scandals: the defense consultancy affair during her tenure as German Defense Minister and the Pfizergate scandal related to COVID-19 vaccine contracts. The first scandal involved allegations of cronyism in awarding contracts to consultants. The investigation encountered challenges when her phone data, deemed evidence, was wiped by the Defense Ministry, which claimed it was for security reasons. This action was criticized as an attempt to sabotage the probe, but it remains unclear if the investigation was officially halted. The Pfizergate scandal centered on text messages between von der Leyen and Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla during vaccine negotiations. Her refusal to release these messages has led to legal challenges and ongoing investigations by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO).
+
+### Who Is Watching Your Wealth?
+
+Another dark cloud of totalitarian control is emerging on the horizon. The European Union plans to systematically record and manage assets through the introduction of an asset register. A central database will consolidate all asset values exceeding 200,000 EUR. Citizens will be required to declare all account movements, stock holdings, company investments, cryptocurrencies, and even cash. Additionally, assets located outside the European Union must be registered. Violating this reporting obligation can result in hefty fines of up to one million euros for individuals and over ten million euros for banks.
+
+The new Anti-Money Laundering Authority (AMLA) will be granted extensive sanctioning powers, including the ability to block accounts and prevent transactions.
+
+Furthermore, the EU intends to allow access to the asset register not only to state authorities but also to “persons with a legitimate interest.” Journalists, NGOs, universities, and international institutions will have access to sensitive data. This access increases the risk of abuse, targeted spying, and political pressure. Supporters of unpopular projects could quickly become targets for media scrutiny and NGO actions. Public shaming could lead to account suspensions or blocked transactions. A Europe-wide mega database becomes an attractive target for cybercriminals.
+
+The EU plans to tighten asset confiscation measures and can seize assets under certain conditions. The burden of proof is reversed; citizens must demonstrate that their assets are legal, rather than the state proving they are illegal. The government can utilize assets to address economic crises even without any criminal suspicion.
+
+This lays the groundwork for a digital euro, announced for late 2025, which will facilitate a surveillance system and provide direct access to citizens’ assets.
+
+Additionally, access to cash is being restricted. In the EU, a €10,000 cash payment limit will be implemented in three years to combat money laundering and terrorist financing. Member states can establish lower limits. This rule excludes private transactions between individuals, such as selling a car to a neighbor. However, the EU often encroaches gradually on civil liberties, so it is possible that this limit may be lowered and applied to private individuals in the future.
+
+### Who Is Watching Your Health?
+
+Lately, the European Union has significantly expanded its digital infrastructure, with Germany leading the way in implementing new technologies to streamline public services. A key example is the introduction of the digital patient record (elektronische Patientenakte, ePA), which became mandatory for all citizens with statutory health insurance in Germany starting in 2025, although opting out is still permitted. This digital file stores sensitive health data, prescriptions, and medical histories, making them accessible to healthcare providers and, under certain conditions, to insurance companies and government agencies.
+
+While the official justification is increased efficiency and improved medical care, critics warn that these measures indicate a shift toward a surveillance society reminiscent of dystopian worlds. The EU’s broader push for digital identity frameworks, combined with data retention laws and the expansion of AI-powered monitoring, raises serious concerns about personal autonomy and freedom. The EU plans to implement the European Health Data Space (EHDS), a central system that aims for nearly all member states to join by 2025, with exchanges starting in early 2028. This system will enable cross-border access to electronic health records, including patient summaries, prescriptions, medical imagery, and laboratory results. Participation will be mandatory, with no option to opt out.
+
+In Germany, the Federal Commissioner for Data Protection has repeatedly criticized the lack of robust safeguards and the risk of unauthorized access or misuse of personal health information. The ePA was hacked before its introduction by hackers in Germany, who gained access to the system, raising alarms about the security of sensitive data. This incident highlighted vulnerabilities in the digital infrastructure and the potential for abuse by state authorities or private entities.
+
+Citizens fear that these systems could be used to profile individuals, influence insurance premiums, or restrict access to services based on algorithmic assessments. As the lines between public health, private data, and state oversight blur, many worry that the promise of digital convenience comes at the expense of fundamental rights. This echoes warnings about technocratic control and the loss of individual agency. Given the massive overreach of the state during COVID-19, these developments are particularly alarming.
+
+## State Control Mechanisms
+
+### Media Bias & Propaganda
+
+Germany has the largest public broadcasting network in the world, with a budget of around 10 billion euros collected from every citizen, regardless of their service usage.
+
+The system is enforced via mandatory fees (€18.36 per month), with critics claiming this compulsion is akin to financial coercion, especially given the perceived lack of neutrality and the one-sidedness in representation. A refusal to pay this fee can lead to the seizure of personal assets and even imprisonment. Georg Thiel became widely known for his imprisonment due to his refusal to pay the German broadcasting license fee. He was brought into administrative detention (“Erzwingungshaft”) to force compliance with court-ordered payments and remained in prison for 181 days (nearly 6 months). He didn’t pay his debt but needed to be released due to limits on administrative detention.
+
+This broadcasting system funds 22 television stations, 67 radio stations, and over 175 YouTube channels, employing more than 25,000 people.
+
+<Figure>
+  <Image
+    src="/assets/images/posts/modern-atlas-shrugged-propaganda.webp"
+    alt="A golden muscular figure stands with an outstretched arm in front of a shining sun, while a television with a shattered screen sits among city buildings and dark clouds."
+  />
+</Figure>
+
+Ninety-two percent of its employees support socialist parties: the Green Party “Die Grünen” (57.1%), the former SED party “Die Linke” (23.4%), or the Social Democratic Party “SPD” (11.7%).
+
+When the public broadcasting system was founded, it aimed to be independent and free from government influence. However, over the years, it has become increasingly politicized and biased. Critics argue that the system has lost its original purpose and now acts as a mouthpiece for the government and ruling parties, particularly the left-wing parties.
+
+The claim that ARD and ZDF serve as platforms for “Regierungspropaganda” (government propaganda) has merit. Their vast budgets allow for continuous broadcasting across many channels, leaving little space for dissenting voices. Several former and current employees have shared their experiences in this culture of censorship and manipulation. They express concern over the lack of political and social diversity within the editorial staff.
+
+In 2017, the ARD commissioned a “Framing Manual” from a communication scientist to train staff in using specific linguistic and psychological techniques to persuade the public of the value of public broadcasting. This internal PR initiative cost €120,000. The manual recommended “manipulative communication tricks,” which critics labeled as evidence of top-down propaganda.
+
+Critics argue that public broadcasters often attack all opposition, labeling dissenters of government policy as “rechtsextrem” (right-wing extremist). This practice effectively stifles genuine democratic debate and stigmatizes opposing political forces. Furthermore, public media and affiliated organizations engage in coordinated efforts to silence or marginalize alternative media and dissenting voices. A notable criticism was directed at ARD’s show “Die 100 – Was Deutschland bewegt” (The 100 – What Moves Germany), which relied on dystopian, emotionally manipulative tactics instead of fostering sincere dialogue. The audience is depicted as passive “game pieces,” while the medium prioritizes creating “social pressure and emotionalization” for conformity over promoting public reasoning or maturity.
+
+During the COVID-19 era, the German population experienced a clear use of “military-grade” propaganda techniques. Government-aligned experts dominated television talk shows, while opposing views were largely absent. This contributed to a sense of a monolithic narrative and heightened public fear.
+
+An INSA survey found that trust in ARD and ZDF has plummeted. The majority of the adult population now mistrusts these public broadcasters, a trend that corresponds with accusations of perceived bias.
+
+The public broadcast network frequently attracts negative attention due to its manipulation of interviews and biased reporting. In the first three months of 2025, it staged hundreds of interviews. A common practice involves using local politicians from left-wing parties disguised as “normal citizens.” On several occasions, the network even featured its own employees as interview partners without disclosing their affiliations. Multiple media outlets, such as the 𝕏 account [ÖRR Blog](https://x.com/OERRBlog), track these instances of fraud and propaganda. It is clear that anyone consuming content from this state broadcaster is either unaware of the decline or refuses to acknowledge it.
+
+### Political Lawfare: Silencing Dissent
+
+At the EU level, lawfare manifests as legislative initiatives designed to expand state power over speech. Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, has proposed a new law to criminalize “hate speech” throughout the EU. This initiative requires unanimous approval from all member states and faces political challenges, particularly from leaders like Hungary’s Viktor Orbán and Slovakia’s Robert Fico. The law’s broad scope—criminalizing not only discrimination but also negative stereotyping of groups—has raised concerns that it could suppress legitimate discourse, including reporting on immigration-related crime statistics.
+
+In Germany, lawfare is directly targeted against individuals who criticize the state. A significant group of politicians, particularly from the Green Party and the FDP, including Robert Habeck, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, Annalena Baerbock, and Katrin Göring-Eckardt, leads in suing ordinary citizens. Some have filed lawsuits against over 1,000 citizens. Many of these cases involve the services of the agency SO-DONE, which specializes in automatic cease-and-desist letters. They utilize AI to scan social media platforms and identify posts that infringe on their clients’ rights.
+
+<Figure>
+  <Image
+    src="/assets/images/posts/modern-atlas-shrugged-lawfare.webp"
+    alt="A golden figure kneels and raises a hand toward a judge seated on a throne, with a city in ruins and the sun setting behind clouds in the background."
+  />
+</Figure>
+
+Germany has several sections in its criminal code that are frequently used against its citizens. In addition to the regular insult law ([§&nbsp;185 Beleidigung](https://www.gesetze-im-internet.de/stgb/__185.html)), which punishes insults with up to one year of imprisonment or a fine, there is also a law introduced under Angela Merkel that targets defamation of individuals in political life ([§&nbsp;188 Gegen Personen des politischen Lebens gerichtete Beleidigung, üble Nachrede und Verleumdung](https://www.gesetze-im-internet.de/stgb/__188.html)). This law is invoked thousands of times each year to raid the homes of citizens for memes, jokes, or puns directed at politicians.
+
+A report on the American TV show “[60 Minutes,](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-bMzFDpfDwc)” which aired in February 2025, highlighted Germany’s approach to combating online hate speech. The report features interviews with German prosecutors from the “Central Office for Combating Hate Crime on the Internet” in Lower Saxony, who share their views on the limits of free speech. The prosecutors explain how they conduct early-morning raids to seize individuals’ phones and laptops over allegedly illegal social media posts, even if the posts were merely shared and not authored by the individual. The lawyers joked that the main punishment is confiscating devices rather than fines, suggesting that this practice serves as a tool of oppression against dissent. Typically, all electronic devices—computers and mobile devices—are confiscated, and in numerous instances, individuals never get them back. This results in significant harm to individuals, who must replace all their devices and may struggle to perform everyday tasks without them.
+
+The worst paragraph is incitement to hatred ([§&nbsp;130 Volksverhetzung](https://www.gesetze-im-internet.de/stgb/__130.html)), a vague provision that can be applied to anyone for any reason. Originally intended to combat anti-Semitism and to prevent calls for violence against specific groups, it is now used for a wide range of issues. If you mention the overrepresentation of a particular ethnic group in crime or express dislike for LGBT propaganda, your words can be interpreted as hate against groups or subsets of groups. This law is consistently enforced against the political right, but rarely against the left. Additionally, courts regularly rejected all reports of discrimination against the unvaccinated or any right-wing group, as such discrimination is deemed acceptable. A court ruled, for example, that the party leader of the AfD, Alice Weidel, had to live with being called “Nazi-Schlampe” (Nazi slut).
+
+<Pullquote
+  text="Show me the man and I’ll show you the crime."
+  author="Lavrentiy Beria, secret police chief of Joseph Stalin"
+/>
+
+All these laws are regularly enforced against critics of the state and its measures. Once a person gains a certain level of influence, the state directs all its resources against them. They often face house searches and a variety of accusations. The state has unlimited resources, so when they lose a case, they use taxpayer money to cover the fees and simply try again. Some individuals, particularly those who have been critical of the COVID-19 measures, such as Professor [Stefan Homburg](https://www.stefan-homburg.de/), have been targeted multiple times.
+
+The house of [Paul Brandenburg](https://paulbrandenburg.com/), a doctor and entrepreneur, was raided in May 2022 on suspicion of violating the War Weapons Control Act. His firearms, which he had legally obtained as a sport shooter and hunter, were confiscated. Before this incident, he was summoned by the State Security Police for allegedly delegitimizing the state and inciting violence. He faced harassment, and his social media accounts were deplatformed, forcing him to leave the country.
+
+[Anabel Schunke](https://x.com/ainyrockstar), a freelance journalist and author, was charged with incitement to hatred based on an 𝕏 post from April 2022. In that post, she criticized Sinti and Roma and accused Interior Minister Nancy Faeser of stifling criticism by labeling it as racism. The Goslar District Court initially imposed a fine of €5,400. However, on appeal, the Braunschweig Regional Court acquitted her, determining that her statements did not violate human dignity.
+
+Another journalist and blogger, [Boris Reitschuster](https://reitschuster.de/), is recognized as an expert on Russia and a critic of COVID-19 measures. He was targeted after a complaint filed by WDR, which led to a police search of his home on May 19, 2021, presumably for defamation. On May 22, 2021, he was detained at the border. A second investigation was also launched regarding an op-ed, but both investigations were ultimately discontinued as baseless. Reitschuster left Germany in August 2021 and now resides in Montenegro. He describes his departure as “expulsion” due to state pressure and has published a book about it titled “Meine Vertreibung” (My Expulsion).
+
+One famous case that gained international attention was the “Schwachkopf Professional” incident. A meme depicting Green Minister Robert Habeck as a “Schwachkopf” (imbecile) led to a police raid on the home of [Stefan Niehoff](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2xvAFT-7jJo), who posted the meme and was charged with defamation. This incident sparked outrage and highlighted the lengths to which the state is willing to go to suppress dissenting voices. Although the case was eventually dropped, a charge for Volksverhetzung (incitement to hatred) was reopened against him based on material found during the raid.
+
+Shortly after, another case reached an international audience due to its severity. David Bendels, the Editor-in-Chief of [Deutschland-Kurier](https://deutschlandkurier.de/), was sentenced to seven months of suspended imprisonment for posting a meme of Nancy Faeser, the former Minister of the Interior, on 𝕏. The meme depicted her holding a sign that read “Ich hasse die Meinungsfreiheit” (I hate freedom of speech).
+
+Christian Schneider, the host of the Libertarian podcast “[Aethervox Ehrenfeld](https://xsxm.de/),” has been charged three times with insult and defamation. His offense? He mocked politicians and journalists on 𝕏, referring to them as “Hexe” (witch) and jokingly saying “Ab ins Feuer” (into the fire). The court issued him a warning, and he must pay the associated fees. Another case is still pending, in which he referred to two policewomen exiting a bakery as “Puddingteilchen” (pudding pastries), accompanied by these emojis: 💅🧁
+
+These are just a small fraction of the public cases I am aware of. The trend extends beyond individual instances. Political opponents, particularly from the AfD, experience de-banking, de-housing, and de-personing—tactics that undermine their financial and social standing. Several banks closed AfD accounts during election campaigns, hotels denied entry to party leader Alice Weidel, and civil servants affiliated with the AfD faced threats of dismissal. These actions, often legally questionable, expose a system that punishes dissent not through debate but through exclusion and coercion.
+
+In addition, the government is misusing the “Verfassungschutz” (Office for the Protection of the Constitution) to target the opposition. A few weeks ago, just days before the new government took office, it released a 1,108-page secret report aimed at classifying the AfD as “confirmed right-wing extremist.” The report was shared with several government-friendly newspapers, while the AfD was denied access to the file. Shortly thereafter, someone leaked the report to two alternative media outlets, including [Nius](https://www.nius.de/politik/news/nius-veroeffentlicht-komplettes-verfassungsschutz-gutachten-afd/6e8ff90c-285f-49c4-9733-71e4604d3019), which published the full document for public access. The report is ridiculous and embarrassing for the authorities, as it compiles memes and quotes from social media posted by AfD politicians. While the memes are quite funny, nothing in the report justifies the classification, and everything falls under free speech.
+
+On May 15, 2025, an event occurred that I never thought possible in a democratic state, bringing Germany one step closer to resembling a second GDR. The German Federal Police prevented eight activists from identitarian right movements from leaving the country, as reported on [Nius](https://www.nius.de/gesellschaft/news/identitaere-bewegung-flughafen-muenchen-ausreiseverbot-remigration/1b442e7f-16c0-441c-a59a-5439892390dd). They were traveling to Milan to attend a “Remigration Summit.” Armed officers detained the activists at Munich Airport, interrogating them for several hours while searching and confiscating their devices. The police justified the travel ban by citing the risk of reputational damage to Germany if right-wing extremists participated in the event and promoted extremist ideology. This ban, based on paragraph 1 of the [§&nbsp;10 Passgesetz (PassG)](https://www.gesetze-im-internet.de/pa_g_1986/__10.html) (German Passport Act), was imposed for travel to Switzerland, Austria, and Italy until May 18. The activists were required to report to a police station on the following days; failure to comply would result in a €100 fine. The legal basis for this action appears questionable, as there is no evidence of specific criminal activities.
+
+### The Welfare State: Dependency Over Productivity
+
+Germany’s welfare state, a cornerstone of its social policy, has grown into a behemoth that consumes a disproportionate share of public resources. In 2024, social security spending—including unemployment insurance—accounts for 45.9% of the federal budget, overshadowing investments in education (5.1%), infrastructure (1.9%), and public transport (0.5%). Additional welfare programs, such as asylum seeker and family benefits, add another 5.2%, bringing total social spending to over half the budget. This allocation leaves little room for investments that could drive long-term economic growth, a concern libertarians view as a misprioritization of resources. Critics, echoing Ayn Rand’s Atlas Shrugged, argue that such policies risk fostering a society of “moochers”—those who live off the productivity of others without contributing themselves—thus perpetuating dependency over self-reliance.
+
+<Figure>
+  <Image
+    src="/assets/images/posts/modern-atlas-shrugged-welfare.webp"
+    alt="A golden figure relaxes in a hammock under dramatic clouds and sun rays, with distant buildings and small figures scattered across a green landscape."
+  />
+</Figure>
+
+The middle class, the backbone of Germany’s industrial strength, bears the brunt of this system. For example, the average worker contributes 18.6% of their gross wage to the pension system but receives only a fraction of this in retirement benefits. With an aging population and a shrinking workforce, this disparity is widening, creating a system where the productive are heavily taxed to sustain an increasingly unsustainable entitlement structure. This fosters dependency, reduces work incentives, and undermines individual responsibility.
+
+A striking example of perceived government overreach is the policy in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, where welfare recipients and asylum seekers receive subsidized vacations—up to €30 per day per family member for seven nights. Funded by taxpayers, this initiative is considered a misallocation of resources, diverting funds from productive sectors to consumption-based handouts. Such policies reflect collectivist excesses, where the government prioritizes equality of outcome over economic vitality, ultimately dragging society toward stagnation.
+
+Across the EU, the scale of the welfare state is equally troubling. Europe accounts for 50% of global social spending despite comprising just 7% of the world’s population. In many countries, public social spending exceeds the OECD average of 21% of GDP, with some nearing 30%. Yet, this high spending has not eradicated poverty, particularly in Southern Europe, suggesting inefficiencies that indicate government failure. The EU’s economic stagnation, lagging behind the US and China in productivity and innovation, is intertwined with this oversized welfare state, necessitating reforms to enhance competitiveness.
+
+### Taxation: Choking Innovation and Growth
+
+Germany’s taxation system exacerbates the burdens of the welfare state, imposing some of the highest rates in the world on both individuals and corporations. In 2024, a €100,000 income incurs an annual tax burden of €36,500—the highest among G7 nations—compared to €26,600 in the US and €24,800 in Japan. This leaves German workers with significantly less disposable income, limiting their ability to save, invest, or build wealth. Over the past 55 years, social security contributions alone have risen from 26.5% to 42.5% of an employer’s gross salary, reducing an average worker’s annual take-home pay by €8,467 compared to 1970 rates.
+
+<Figure>
+  <Image
+    src="/assets/images/posts/modern-atlas-shrugged-taxation.webp"
+    alt="A hooded, faceless figure in dark clothing crouches among piles of gold bars, holding a sack of gold, with city buildings and dramatic light beams in the background."
+  />
+</Figure>
+
+Corporate taxation presents a similar challenge. Germany’s high corporate tax rates deter investment and entrepreneurship, which are key drivers of economic dynamism. As other European nations lower rates to attract businesses, Germany’s increases indicate a disconnect from global trends, jeopardizing its competitiveness. Energy taxes further illustrate this burden: 50-55% of gasoline prices consist of taxes (e.g., €0.65 energy tax, €0.08 CO₂ tax, plus 19% VAT), while gas stations earn only €0.10-0.15 per liter. This disparity highlights a system where the government extracts significant revenue without providing proportional value, resembling parasitic governance.
+
+High taxation distorts markets and discourages risk-taking. Reducing the tax burden could unleash entrepreneurial potential, fostering innovation and growth. Instead, Germany’s policies mirror the suffocating regulations in _Atlas Shrugged_, where excessive taxation drives the productive to disengage, causing the economy to falter.
+
+Germany also has an exit tax system (Wegzugbesteuerung) that is similar to the Reich flight tax (Reichsfluchtsteuer) introduced in 1931 and repurposed by the Nazi regime after 1933. The old law required emigrants to pay 25% of their total assets when leaving the country. The current law applies to unrealized capital gains on shares when a person who has lived in Germany for at least 10 years and holds substantial shareholdings (generally at least 1%) emigrates, imposing an approximate tax of 25% on the value of those shareholdings. Since 2025, the exit tax also includes investment fund shares.
+
+The middle class—Rand’s “Atlases”—is heavily taxed to sustain a welfare state that prioritizes dependency over productivity, while high taxation stifles the innovation needed to reverse industrial decline.
+
+### The Hidden Tax: How Inflation Quietly Destroys Middle-Class Wealth
+
+But it is not only taxation that burdens “Atlas”—the middle class and productive industrialists. Inflation, driven by government expansion of the money supply, acts as a hidden form of taxation. Unlike obvious taxes on income or property, most people do not immediately recognize its effects. As new money enters the economy, it redistributes wealth toward those who receive it first (Cantillon effect)—typically governments, banks, and politically connected entities—at the expense of everyone else, especially fixed-income earners, savers, and pensioners. This process benefits the government and its allies, allowing the state to siphon off resources while diminishing citizens’ purchasing power without the transparency of direct taxation. This not only extracts wealth but does so in a way that is harder for the public to understand and resist than overt taxation. Inflation also hurts savers and pensioners the most, as their stored wealth loses purchasing power over time.
+
+<Figure>
+  <Image
+    src="/assets/images/posts/modern-atlas-shrugged-inflation.webp"
+    alt="Two hands hold golden coins above a wheat field and city buildings, one coin is whole and the other is cracked."
+  />
+</Figure>
+
+Throughout history, states have resorted to inflation—by debasing coinage or printing money—to cover expenses and benefit insiders. The Roman government frequently debased its currency by reducing the silver content of its coins and mixing them with cheaper metals like copper to fund its spending. Over time, this caused severe inflation, eroded trust in money, and ultimately forced the state to collect taxes in kind because its coins had become worthless. By the late third century, the currency had lost so much value that Rome could no longer pay its soldiers and officials in money; instead, taxes were collected in supplies or bullion, and the state resorted to forced labor.
+
+<Pullquote text="Inflation is taxation without legislation." author="Milton Friedman" />
+
+After World War I, the German government printed vast amounts of money to finance expenditures and reparations, leading to one of the worst cases of hyperinflation in history. By November 1923, the mark had plummeted to 4,200,000,000,000 to the dollar. Those dependent on monetary assets or fixed incomes—such as savings, insurance, bonds, mortgages, and pensions—were devastated. The intellectual and productive middle class, traditionally the backbone of the country, lost all its property and became proletarianized. Hyperinflation signifies a complete breakdown of the economic production structure that had developed over centuries. It rendered trade, production, and all activities impossible, forcing people to scrape for the bare essentials of life. This turmoil fueled the rise of Adolf Hitler.
+
+The inflation of the 1920s in the United States, characterized by easy credit and asset bubbles, led to an economic crash. This was followed by government interventions, including further currency devaluations. This cycle paralyzed the economy, resulting in widespread unemployment and the closure of schools, services, and businesses.
+
+Monetary expansion transfers wealth and distorts economic calculations for businesses, complicating planning and investment. Assets, contracts, and business plans that assume stable money become less reliable, increasing uncertainty and risk for all market participants.
+
+<Blockquote author="Alan Greenspan">
+  In the absence of the gold standard, there is no way to protect savings from confiscation through
+  inflation (…) There is no safe store of value.
+</Blockquote>
+
+The gold standard historically provided a natural check on government inflation. Gold’s scarcity limited the creation of money and enforced fiscal discipline. As Rothbard explains, under the gold standard, if a country inflated its supply of paper money, it would lose gold reserves to other countries. This loss would force a correction and restore balance. With the end of the gold standard—especially after Nixon closed the gold window in 1971—money became entirely fiat, allowing governments to print without hard constraints. The results have been staggering: since 1914, both the US dollar and British pound have lost over 95% of their value relative to gold. Unchecked fiat expansion leads to persistent inflation, economic booms and busts, and a general erosion of capital accumulation and real wages. The effects of this devastating decision are illustrated in numerous graphs on the website [WTF Happened In 1971?](https://wtfhappenedin1971.com/).
+
+<Figure caption="Hard Money - WTF Happened in 1971? (2020)">
+  <YouTube id="hX9e1VSSP6Y" />
+</Figure>
+
+Inflation is so evil because most people do not understand its causes and how it silently erodes their wealth. If you had placed €1 under your mattress in 1989, it would have a purchasing power of only €0.35 in 2024. Prices in Germany have nearly tripled, resulting in a total inflation rate of 184.9% from 1989 to 2024. The state has effectively taken two-thirds of your wealth and lifetime. And this is on top of all the different taxes you have already paid.
+
+Modern states and their economists have changed the public’s understanding of “inflation.” They have shifted the focus from the growth of the money supply, which is the true cause, to changes in consumer prices, which are merely the effect. This redefinition obscures state responsibility and allows for additional money creation without provoking direct public backlash.
+
+## Conclusion
+
+In conclusion, the expanding reach of the European Union and national governments across Europe mirrors the dystopian overreach depicted in _Atlas Shrugged_. Excessive regulations, surveillance, and a bloated welfare state have stifled innovation, undermined personal freedoms, and burdened the productive middle class with ever-increasing taxes and inflation. These trends, justified by collectivist ideals and technocratic control, risk eroding the foundations of prosperity and individual liberty that once defined Europe.
+
+Unless there is a decisive shift toward deregulation, transparency, and respect for personal autonomy, the current trajectory will only deepen dependency, inefficiency, and social division. The lesson from history and literature is clear: societies that prioritize control and redistribution over individual initiative and freedom ultimately face stagnation and decline.
+
+<Banner summary="⏳ Next part" open>
+  This is the second part of a series of three parts. The next part will be released in one week.
+</Banner>