Europe as the Would-be World Power: The EU at Fifty

by Giandomenico Majone

Overview

For fifty years European integration has been pursued according to an operational code based on rules which have never been publicly discussed. This book demonstrates the far-reaching consequences of the prioritisation of integration over competing values, fait accompli and other implicit rules of action. The willingness to sacrifice democracy on the altar of integration is demonstrated by the monopoly of legislative initiative granted to the non-elected Commission. Monetary union preceding, rather than following, political integration is a striking example of fait accompli, and the reason behind many holes in the EU system of economic governance. Until now, academics have avoided radical criticism; Giandomenico Majone argues that only an open acknowledgement of the obsolescence of the traditional methods can stem the rising tide of Euro-scepticism.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521758451
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	07/23/2009
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	266
Product dimensions:	5.90(w) x 8.90(h) x 0.60(d)

About the Author

Giandomenico Majone is Emeritus Professor of Public Policy at the European University Institute in Florence.

Table of Contents

Introduction; 1. An elitist project; 2. Federalism old and new; 3. Cryptofederalism; 4. Unintended consequences of cryptofederalism; 5. The mirage of social Europe; 6. The democratic deficit and all that; 7. The obsolescence of the traditional integration methods; 8. Unity in diversity.

Editorial Reviews

'This is a book written with unusual passion, even anger, and that increases its appeal. It exposes the inadequacy of the 'Community method' to meet the standards of democratic accountability to which we are accustomed at state level … This is a book that needs reading.' European Law Review

'… Majone describes the pathologies of European decision-making in a superb and comprehensive manner. … [his] sophisticated and complex analysis seems chiefly suited to European academics …' International Affairs

From the Publisher