Abouts Books

By Hans Bool

Another useless killing a few days ago and the result of the recent elections in Spain offer a good opportunity to spend some time on this Basque problem that is part of Spain.

"Basques against Basques" is a book that got published last year. Of course it has not been translated in another language than Spanish, and it probably will not either, but I think it is very interesting not only for Spain, but for Europe and the rest of the world. I read it a few months ago.

I will not write much about it other than a simple elaboration on the title for the title says most of what most people don't know. Many think that the problem in the Basque Country is about the Basque language and a fight for freedom from the Spanish central government. Well that's not at all where this Basque conflict is about. The original Basque language has never been a real issue. The writer Miguel de Unamuno, famous for his book "Mist" (Niebla), was originally a Basque, but has never written other than in the Spanish language.

The core of the Basque conflict is about xenophobia. One part of the Basque have adopted to international standards in business and politics and have culturally developed themselves, another part of the Basques got behind and have always been resistant to any change. They are still living according to "medieval" standards in many ways. It is that last group that is not only against the Spanish government, but against foreigners in general, because that is what xenophobia is all about.

Having read this book and living as a foreigner in Spain it made me think (twice).

I have visited the Basque community many years ago. Now I think I'll just wait for a next visit until terrorism is over. After all, it should be possible. We live in Europe in the 21st century. It is not Libanon or Afganistan we are talking about. It just Europe...

http://www.casadellibro.com/fichas/fichabiblio/0,3060,2900001151167,00.html?codigo=2900001151167&ca=105

Hans Bool writes articles about management, culture and change. If you are interested to read or experience more about these topics have a look at: Astor White.