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Freitag Editor Reflects on Günter Gaus's Definition of Leftism

opinion-review · 2026-08-28

In a recent editorial for the German weekly newspaper der Freitag, Michael Angele, writing in the 'Endlich Freitag!' column, reflects on the meaning of leftism, drawing on a definition by Günter Gaus, the former co-publisher of the paper. Gaus defined leftism as prioritizing societal questions. Angele admits to finding this definition appealing, though he is not entirely certain he fully grasps its implications. He confesses that he has adopted it partly as a 'fig leaf' due to his own uncertainty about his leftist identity. The editorial also mentions Sibylle Berg's commitment to leftism and Michael Andrick's pacifism, with hopes for good weather. The piece is part of the 'Endlich Freitag!' newsletter, which readers can subscribe to. The article appears in the current issue of der Freitag.

Key facts

  • Michael Angele wrote the 'Endlich Freitag!' column for der Freitag.
  • Günter Gaus, former co-publisher of der Freitag, defined leftism as prioritizing societal questions.
  • Angele finds Gaus's definition sympathetic but admits uncertainty about his own leftism.
  • The editorial mentions Sibylle Berg's commitment to leftism and Michael Andrick's pacifism.
  • The piece is part of the 'Endlich Freitag!' newsletter, which can be subscribed to.
  • The article appears in the current issue of der Freitag.

Entities

Artists

  • Sibylle Berg
  • Michael Andrick

Institutions

  • der Freitag

Sources