Why Switzerland?
Why Switzerland?
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9780521709552Switzerland is a special and fascinating place. Its unique institutions, its direct democracy, multi-member executives, absence of strikes, communal autonomy, its universal military service, its wealth, and four national languages make it interesting in itself. But it has wider significance, in representing the 'Europe that did not happen', the Europe that escaped the centralisation of state and economy associated with the modern world. Today, there is a new special feature. Switzerland is an island surrounded by the European Union, and resists membership. Why Switzerland? attempts to answer three related questions: why has such an exception to European norms survived? Why should outsiders notice its peculiarities and what can they learn from them? Finally, can so unusual a society continue to exist when many of the conditions in which it evolved have disappeared?
- A unique study of 'how Switzerland works' in a thoroughly revised and illustrated new edition
- Offers a clear analysis of Switzerland's democratic politics, and describes models to imitate or consider
- Questions the established doctrines about Switzerland's languages, politics, history, etc, and its position regarding the European Union
Reviews & endorsements
'A masterly little book.' The Times Literary Supplement
'I recommend that you buy it, read it, and realise what you are missing - not just the railways - by not being Swiss.' Swiss Express
Product details
No date availableAdobe eBook Reader
9781316283035
0 pages
0kg
35 b/w illus. 6 maps
This ISBN is for an eBook version which is distributed on our behalf by a third party.
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Table of Contents
- Preface
- 1. Why Switzerland?
- 2. History
- 3. Politics
- 4. Language
- 5. Wealth
- 6. Religion
- 7. Identity
- 8. Why Switzerland matters
- Appendix. How to vote for the lower house of Parliament (Nationalrat) in Switzerland.
