German-French Writer and Political Scientist Alfred Grosser Passes Away at 99

In a sad turn of events, the world has lost a great intellectual and diplomat with the passing of Alfred Grosser. The German-French writer, sociologist, and political scientist, known for his honesty and straightforwardness, died at the age of 99. His contributions to Franco-German relations and his insightful perspectives on various political issues will be remembered for years to come.

Grosser’s Unique Approach to Diplomacy

Alfred Grosser was not one to mince words when it came to expressing his opinions. He had a knack for getting to the heart of the matter and presenting ideas that were often unconventional and thought-provoking. During a time when the world stood in solidarity after the attacks on “Charlie Hebdo,” Grosser criticized the participation of politicians from Ankara and Moscow in the demonstration for press freedom, referring to it as a “parade of hypocrites.”

His outspoken nature extended to his views on far-right movements such as PEGIDA and the AfD party. Grosser did not hesitate to call out the flaws in their ideologies, once stating, “When people talk of the Judeo-Christian Occidental civilization, it makes me, as a Jew, feel sick.” He was also highly critical of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party.

A Life Shaped by Exile

Alfred Grosser’s life was deeply influenced by his family’s decision to flee Germany when he was just eight years old. Born in Frankfurt am Main in 1925, his Jewish family sought refuge in France to escape the growing power of Hitler. Despite finding a new home in France, Grosser never forgot his German roots.

Grosser’s father, Paul, had fought for Germany in World War I and was awarded the Iron Cross First Class for bravery. However, after Hitler’s rise to power, Jewish veterans like Paul Grosser were expelled from the Association of Iron Cross Bearers. In a speech at the German Bundestag, Alfred Grosser recounted how France, the country his father had fought against, honored him as a war veteran.

A Prolific Author and Political Scientist

Alfred Grosser’s intellectual pursuits knew no bounds. As a political scientist, he taught at the renowned “Sciences Po” college of politics in Paris and authored over 30 books. His works focused on the complexities of the German-Franco relationship, aiming to bridge the gap between the two nations and foster a strong Franco-German friendship.

With titles such as “How different are the Germans” and “How different is France,” Grosser provided invaluable insight into the mindset of both countries. His contributions played a significant role in the post-World War II development of the Franco-German friendship.

A Critical Thinker and Advocate for Peace

Alfred Grosser’s commitment to promoting understanding and peace earned him numerous accolades and awards in both Germany and France. He was honored with the Peace Prize of the German Book Trade, the Goethe Plaque of the City of Frankfurt, the Grand Cross of Merit in Germany, and the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honor in France.

Grosser’s critical thinking extended beyond politics and history. He was not afraid to challenge popular opinions, even when it came to sensitive topics such as Israel. Grosser publicly supported German Nobel Prize winner Günter Grass when he faced backlash for his poem warning of a potential Israeli aggression against Iran. Grosser believed in the right to criticize Israel without being immediately labeled as an anti-Semite, a label he himself had been given for criticizing Israel’s policies.

Alfred Grosser’s unique perspective as an outsider allowed him to offer valuable insights into the complexities of Germany, France, and Israel. His passing leaves a void in the intellectual world, but his ideas and contributions will continue to inspire and provoke thought for generations to come.