The Federal States of Germany – Analysis and Measurement of Development Using Taxonomic Methods

A b st r a c t : This article presents an analysis of the socio-econ omic development of the 16 federal states of Germany as compared to the whole country. The main goals of the analysis are to measure the developmen t with the use of selected taxonomic methods, to examine the similarities and diff erences between the states inasmuch as that development is concerned, as well as to illustrate the distance existing between the new eastern states (Brandenburg, Me cklenburg-Vorpommern, Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, and Thuringia) and the remai ning states of Germany. The analysis is preceded by an illustration of the present socio-economic situation of the German states. Germany is characterized by internal diversity as regards the socio-economic development, and the polic y of supporting the East German economy has failed to reach its goals. An unfav ourable demographic situation is a factor that effectively inhibits the developme nt of the new states. A falling birth rate, an increasing population beyond retirement ag e, as well as great numbers of