Update on social mood in Europe

Here we are more than two years after Greece went into crisis and the Europeans still cannot reach a deal.

The Italians are now referring to the Germans as the Fourth Reich, complete with hand salute photo of Merkel.

Germany and Italy near blows over euro

“The tone of the debate has turned dangerous. We must be careful that Europe does not rip itself apart,” said German foreign minister, Guido Westerwelle. He himself fanned the flames over the weekend, saying he was “categorically” against further expansion of the EU rescue machinery or bond purchases by the European Central Bank. “I can’t imagine that a majority of the Bundestag will back unlimited debt liabilities,” he said.

It's worth remembering that negative comments and headlines will reach their peak negativity after the nadir in social mood has been passed. It is important to keep an eye on the facts on the ground.