[Schweinhund]

The 'locust capitalist' debate had nothing to do with America, as you are of course eager to be insulted of. It was rather a helpless response of the government to the fact that globalisation is the lever needed to seperate social democracy and working economics.

The main point behind your pathos is of course valid:

"Please tell, what profound 'systemic' changes are happening?"

There are changes on many levels (most surprising to me is that even parts of the German union system are trying to adapt in a sensible way) but our government sucks ass. Besides, it's only 17% VAT. I had my hopes up that a big coalition would be able to force through significant change but up to now nothing has happened.

Besides, you might find this link interesting. And if you choose to read the full thing, I would like to hear your opinion on it, as I am not an expert in these matters.

http://inef.uni-due.de/page/documents/Report81.pdf

[An.American.Expatriate]

The 'locust capitalist' debate had nothing to do with America, ...

Um, then how do you explain this: Kapitalisten, aufgepasst!

or this

[An.American.Expatriate]

Besides, it's only 17% VAT.

Um, what is this then?? Erhöhung des Umsatzsteuersatzes von 16 Prozent auf 19 Prozent zum 1.1.2007