Without the practical help, encouragement, and support of many people, this book would not have been possible. Above all, I thank my wife Aase for her tireless support and patience, and I thank Professor Sven Olaf Poulsen, who patiently revised my manuscript in terms of language. Many others have provided invaluable assistance through practical support, constructive suggestions, or guidance during my study periods. My heartfelt thanks go to the following: Prof. Leif Ludwig Albertsen, Prof. Peter Alheit, Prof. Helmut Brandt and his wife, Lektor Friedel Dubslaff, Secretary Birte Jensen, Prof. Uffe Juul Jensen, cand.scient.pol. Wolfgang Kahlig, Secretary Marie Kejser, Morten Kjaer, cand.mag. Marion Klein, Dr. Lars Lambrecht.