Deconstructing Brexit Discourses: Embedded Euroscepticism, Fantasy Objects and the United Kingdom's Vote to Leave the European Union

This book explores the historical and discursive factors that led to the UK's vote to leave the EU in 2016, highlighting the role of Euroscepticism and British exceptionalism in shaping public opinion. It provides an account of how these ideas are sustained and reproduced, and their enduring power among the British population.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate historical and discursive frameworks surrounding the United Kingdom's (UK) decision to leave the European Union (EU). By placing the Brexit vote within its broader historical context, it sheds light on the deeply embedded Euroscepticism that has dominated British political discourse on the European project for the past three decades. The author examines the role of Euroscepticism in shaping the terrain and conceptual vocabulary of the debate, portraying the EU as inherently heterogeneous and antagonistic to the UK.

The book explores the enduring power of ideas of British exceptionalism, which underpin Eurosceptic discourses, and investigates how these ideas are sustained and reproduced among the British population. It provides a detailed account of the factors that contributed to the rise of pro-Brexit campaigners and their successful mobilization of a new coalition of voters, resulting in the 'leave majority' on June 23, 2016.

This book is of paramount interest to scholars and students of British, EU, and European politics, media and press, public opinion, political behavior, and nationalism studies. It offers valuable insights into the complex dynamics that shaped the Brexit vote and its implications for the future of the UK and the EU. By examining the historical roots of Euroscepticism and the role of British exceptionalism in shaping public attitudes, the book provides a comprehensive understanding of the political landscape in Europe and beyond.

Weight: 380g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032070124