Value Politics in the European Union: From Market to Culture and Back

This book explores the drivers of value politics and how it reshapes political conflict at the EU level, challenging the assumption that identity, cultural, and morality policies are more driven by value conflicts. It argues that European values are a broad and flexible symbolic repertoire used for mobilization, legitimation, delegitimation, power conquest, and conservation.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 182 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive exploration delves into the intricate dynamics of value politics, reshaping political conflict at the European Union (EU) level. Through a combination of in-depth case studies and rigorous analysis of statistical data, the book unveils the multifaceted uses and roles of values in EU policies, spanning market-related initiatives and identity, cultural, and morality policies. Challenging the prevailing notion that identity, cultural, and morality policies are primarily driven by value conflicts, the research reveals the inherent similarities between all policy areas regarding the agency and limitations of values as drivers of change or continuity. It argues that European values serve as a versatile and flexible symbolic repertoire, instrumentalized to facilitate mobilization, legitimation, delegitimation, power conquest, and power conservation.

This book holds immense value for scholars and students engaged in European studies/politics, comparative politics, public policy, political theory, sociology, and cultural studies. It provides a rich and nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between values, policymaking, and the EU's political landscape. Moreover, professionals working in European affairs within and around EU institutions will find this book invaluable as a valuable resource for navigating the intricacies of value-driven decision-making processes.

In conclusion, this book offers a groundbreaking perspective on value politics, shedding light on the ways in which values shape EU policies and influence political dynamics. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex interplay between values, politics, and the EU's evolving landscape.

Weight: 358g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367722067