Conflict and Transformation: Essays on European Law and Policy

This book by Professor Joerges is a critical assessment of the European project at its half-century, identifying three flaws in the current European ideology: intellectual weakness, neglect of the economic, and complacency with Europe's darker legacies. It offers a welcome counterbalance to the optimism surrounding the EU and its development.

Format: Hardback
Length: 624 pages
Publication date: 06 October 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

In this comprehensive compendium, one of the foremost experts in EU law and its legal framework delves into his previous works in the context of the current challenges the European project is facing. Far from a mere restatement, it presents a significant theoretical commentary at a pivotal juncture for EU law. The author provides a welcome counterbalance to the prevailing optimism regarding the EU and its development. By identifying three critical flaws in the current European ideology, Professor Joerges sheds light on the intellectual weakness of the "integration through law" concept. He also highlights the systematic disregard for "the economic" and its political dynamics, as well as the complacency towards Europe's darker legacies. This is a crucial and candid assessment of Europe at the halfway point of its journey.

Introduction:
The European Union (EU) is a unique political and economic entity that has undergone significant transformation over the past half-century. While it has achieved remarkable progress in many areas, it also faces numerous challenges that threaten its continued existence and growth. In this compendium, one of the leading scholars of EU law and its legal framework reflects on his previous writings in the context of these current challenges.

Theoretical Commentary:
The author offers a welcome counterbalance to what some perceive to be a surfeit of optimism when assessing the EU and its development. He identifies three flaws in the current European ideology. Firstly, he points to the intellectual weakness of the "integration through law" ideology. This ideology posits that the EU can achieve its goals through the creation and enforcement of laws and regulations. However, the author argues that this approach is limited in its ability to address the complex economic and political challenges facing the EU.

Secondly, the book sets out the systematic neglect of "the economic" and its political dynamics. The author argues that the EU's economic policies have often been driven by short-term considerations rather than long-term sustainability and growth. This neglect has led to a lack of investment in infrastructure, education, and research, which are essential for the EU's future prosperity.

Finally, the book addresses the complacency with respect to Europes darker legacies. The author recognizes that the EU has a history of colonialism, exploitation, and violence, and that these legacies continue to impact its relations with its neighbors and the world. The book calls for a more honest and critical examination of these legacies and for the EU to take responsibility for its past actions and work towards reconciliation and healing.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this compendium provides a valuable critical assessment of Europe at its half-century. The author's insights into the flaws in the current European ideology and the neglect of "the economic" and its political dynamics offer a timely reminder of the challenges facing the EU. The book's call for a more honest and critical examination of Europes darker legacies is a crucial step towards building a more inclusive and sustainable future for the EU and its citizens.

Weight: 1084g
Dimension: 163 x 241 x 41 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509926954