Ever Closer Union?: Europe in the West

The European Union is a political order of 446 million people, the third largest on the planet, with little purchase on the conduct of its representatives. Perry Anderson poses the historical record of its assembly, tracing the wider arc of European history from the First World War to the Eurozone crisis. He also considers the UK's departure from the Union, comparing Brussels and Westminster as constitutional forms.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 28 September 2021
Publisher: Verso Books

The European Union is a unique and expansive political order, boasting a population of 446 million, making it the third largest on the planet. Despite this size, its representatives often exhibit limited influence over their actions. Sixty years after the founding treaty, the EU has evolved into a complex structure. However, the question remains whether the promise of ever closer union still holds true.

In his book, "The European Union: A History," Perry Anderson challenges the perception of the bloc as a unified and coherent entity. He delves into the historical record of the EU's assembly, tracing the broader arc of European history from the aftermath of the First World War to the Eurozone crisis. Anderson examines the hegemony of Versailles and the subsequent shift towards Maastricht, as well as the insights of contemporary analysts, both independent critics and court philosophers, within the framework of older traditions of political thought.

Anderson seeks to identify similarities between the EU and historical periods such as the age of Metternich and the teachings of Machiavelli. He explores the lessons learned from these eras and how they can inform the EU's governance and decision-making processes.

Furthermore, the book includes an excursus on the United Kingdom's decision to leave the EU, examining the responses it has received within the country's intellectual community. Anderson considers the range of opinions, from contrition to incandescence, and explores how Brussels and Westminster compare as constitutional forms. He asks which of these forms could be considered worse or more effective in achieving the goals of the EU.

"The European Union: A History" offers a comprehensive and thought-provoking analysis of the EU's past, present, and future. It challenges the prevailing narratives and provides a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics that shape the EU's development. By examining the historical record, contemporary perspectives, and constitutional comparisons, Anderson offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the EU in the years to come.

Weight: 364g
Dimension: 149 x 221 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781839764417