Economic History of a Divided Europe: Four Diverse Regions in an Integrating Continent

The book explores the sharp regional differences within the integrating European continent, highlighting the historical factors that have contributed to these disparities. It examines the distinctions between the regions, looks at how they became entrenched, and discusses why some countries were able to elevate to higher levels of economic development while others could not. The book also offers a timely historical analysis of the main causes of the most pressing conflicts in Europe today, including institutional corruption and other cultural features. It will appeal to scholars, researchers, and students studying Europe from various fields, as well as a general readership interested in Europes past, present, and future.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 284 pages
Publication date: 30 September 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The book explores the profound regional disparities within the integrated European continent, highlighting four distinct regions: Northwestern Europe, Southern Europe, Central Europe, and Eastern-Southeastern Europe. These regions exhibit varying levels of economic development, reflecting historical factors that have shaped cultural and behavioral differences. The author delves into the distinctions between these regions, examining their origins and the factors that have contributed to their persistence. By exploring the reasons behind some countries' successful economic advancements and others' stagnation, the book offers valuable insights into the complex dynamics driving Europe's economic landscape.

Moreover, it provides a timely historical analysis of the main causes of the most pressing conflicts in Europe today, shedding light on the interplay between institutional corruption, cultural traits, and economic disparities. The book appeals to scholars, researchers, and students studying Europe from various disciplines, including economics, business, history, political science, and sociology. It also captivates a broader audience interested in understanding Europe's past, present, and future, offering a comprehensive and insightful perspective on the region.

The book begins by tracing the historical roots of European integration throughout civilization, highlighting the diverse and complex tapestry of the continent. It then transitions to discuss the modern reality of integration, emphasizing the efforts to homogenize the Continent into four distinct macro-regions. Each region is examined in depth, exploring its unique economic, social, and political characteristics.

Northwestern Europe, characterized by its advanced economies, strong institutions, and high levels of education, serves as a benchmark for economic development. Southern Europe, on the other hand, faces challenges such as economic instability, political corruption, and social inequality. Central Europe, with its mixed economic performance, struggles to balance economic growth with social welfare and environmental sustainability. Eastern-Southeastern Europe, characterized by its emerging economies, historical legacies, and cultural diversity, presents opportunities for growth but also faces challenges related to political instability, corruption, and regional disparities.

The author delves into the factors that have contributed to these regional disparities, examining the impact of historical events, colonialism, and economic policies. They explore how cultural traits, such as individualism versus collectivism, have shaped economic behavior and decision-making processes. They also examine the role of institutions, including government, business, and social organizations, in fostering or hindering economic development.

The book raises important questions about the future of Europe. How can these regional disparities be addressed to promote greater economic equality and social cohesion? What policies and strategies can be implemented to promote sustainable economic growth and address the challenges facing each region? How can cultural differences be reconciled to foster a more inclusive and harmonious European society?

In conclusion, this book offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the sharp regional differences within the integrated European continent. It provides a timely historical analysis of the main causes of the most pressing conflicts in Europe today, shedding light on the complex interplay between cultural, institutional, and economic factors. By examining the distinctions between the four regions and exploring their historical roots, the book offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing Europe in the 21st century. It appeals to scholars, researchers, and students studying Europe from various disciplines and captivates a broader audience interested in understanding the region's past, present, and future.

Weight: 434g
Dimension: 231 x 156 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032173665