U.S. manufacturing lost 4 million jobs over past 10 years , accounts for only 12 % of GDP . Comment: How Germany stayed economically healthy , while maintaining a strong working class , might offer a lesson or two for America 's woes . Germany recovered quickly from the economic crisis by keeping its skilled work force . German industry is 25 % of its GDP , they write , and focuses on high-quality goods . Writers : German industry has unions , offers high wages and is its most successful sector .
U.S. manufacturing lost 4 million jobs over past 10 years , accounts for only 12 % of GDP . Comment: Germany recovered quickly from the economic crisis by keeping its skilled work force . German industry is 25 % of its GDP , they write , and focuses on high-quality goods . Writers : German industry has unions , offers high wages and is its most successful sector .