Switzerland [antikvár]

Introduction Victor Hugo wrote that in history Switzerland will have the last word. In the light of current history, this statement is hard to refute. Certainly no other nation today can equal the Swiss achievement of finding advantage in adversity, of maintaining unity in a diverse and varied society, and of adapting to the complexities of modern Ufe while clinging tenaciously to historic values and traditions. In this volume, Herbert Kubly has traced the historical forces and the various contributions from many cultures which have gone into the formation of a society uniquely Swiss. Some of his observations may be controversial, but he has done valuable service in delving beneath the traditional image of Switzerland to portray the complex forces constantly at work in this dynamic and progressive nation. He points out the many paradoxes which have been resolved to create modern Switzerland without abandoning the country's original philosophy. A technologically advanced industrial system exists side by side with a pastoral agriculture. A complete welfare program has been established within a political framework founded in the Middle Ages. Perhaps most remarkable has been Switzerland's ability to mediate between other nations without either becoming involved itself or giving up any of its national sovereignty or identity. Switzerland has actively contributed toward European and worldwide consolidation, and has exercised a moral influence far beyond its actual power while steadfastly defending the neutrality which is the cornerstone of its foreign policy. Their history has forced upon the Swiss those qualities which today enable them to play this international role. To stay united and strong in a Europe shaken by the national and religious schisms of the post-Renaissance era, the Swiss had perforce to learn tolerance, to find peaceful solutions to international problems and to practice the industry and frugality which characterize their economic life. Their neutral policy was adopted to keep their tiny country from being sundered by the giants surrounding it. But it has not been a static policy. Mr. Kubly speculates on the modern role of Swiss neutrality at a time when Europe is increasingly united and the world increasingly divided between capitalist and Communist, industrial and agrarian economies, and white and non-white peoples. The adjustment will be difficult, particularly as Switzerland is so clearly capitalist, industrial and white. But it is safe to say that whatever develops will be in the spirit of that blend of pragmatism and idealism that the Swiss have made so particularly their own. The Swiss state and the Swiss people merit careful study by old and new nations alike. To this study Life World Library has provided an attractive and rewarding introduction. C. Burke Elbrick former Assistant Secretary of State for European Affairs