21 year old German here.
This question is for Americans who have been to Germany before (or might’ve had any interaction with Germans). And I know there are a lot of Americans on this platform who bash and hate on their own country but I hope to get an answer that’s as truthful and unbiased as possible.
So as someone who’s very sensitive I always felt like people here are way too cruel and direct. It’s a prevalent stereotype that Germans are very direct and cold. I know that a big part of this is my own perception and mental state that will cause these types of perceptions independent from the country because there will always be assholes.
But I wonder if it could be true that some of my observation might actually be because Germans might actually be more cruel. If you guys are really honest I wonder if it is possible that Americans might be slightly more nice than Germans and which country you think is actually more cruel in general. (Hope this question is not too stupid)
I think it’s reassuring that there were mass anti-extremism protests through out Germany against AfD. To me, this shows me there is a kindness within the culture and a desire to prevent the hate expressed during the Nazi regime.
I would say culturally, Germans are serious and honest, which could come off as cold on first impression. But I have experienced kindness and understanding in most interactions especially when it was apparent I could not speak Deutsch.
I have personnally experienced a realtor stand up for me after just meeting when landlord was trying to nickle and dime me out of my deposit for a 40 year old house. He flat out said he would not work with him if he would not provide my deposit back in full.
As mentioned, milage may vary and people all have theor own personality, but I have not had a bad experience with any Germans.