Edward Elgar Publishing Cultural Diversity, European Identity and the Legitimacy of the EU (Studies in EU Reform and Enlargement series)

Product Description As a consequence of various rounds of EU enlargements, the degree of cultural diversity in Europe has intensified - a phenomenon which is increasingly perceived as problematic by many EU citizens. This fascinating book not only empirically explores the current state of the identity and the legitimacy of the EU as viewed by its citizens, but also evaluates their attitudes towards it. The expert contributors show that the development of a European identity and a common European culture is a prerequisite for European integration; that European identity and a common political culture will not develop rapidly but emerge slowly, and that the beginnings of a European identity and a common European culture are currently emerging. The roles of civil society organizations and political parties are examined within this context, and an explanatory model with subjective predictors of the attitudes towards the EU is tested. The empirical analysis is underpinned by a theoretical framework incorporating operational definitions and conceptual discussion of legitimacy and identity. This intriguing and thought-provoking book will be of great interest to academics, researchers and students focusing on political science and international relations. Review ‘This book is an overall good quality addition to the library of any EU researcher. Its well defined focus does not in any way reduce the relevance of its conclusions. Ultimately, its original empirical findings, its impressive display of quantitative methodology and its contribution to integration and diversity literature will be advantageous in respect of almost any EU-related argument, not to mention a good starting point for future research.’ -- Journal of Contemporary European Research About the Author Edited by Dieter Fuchs, University of Stuttgart, Germany and Hans-Dieter Klingemann, Social Science Research Center Berlin, Germany