Identity, Interests and Attitudes to European Integration

Mclaren, L.M. (2006) Identity, Interests and Attitudes to European Integration. Series: Palgrave studies in European Union politics. Palgrave Macmillan: Basingstoke, UK. ISBN 9781403992819

Abstract

To what degree do citizens of EU member states support its institutions, and how much do perceptions of those institutions depend upon fundamental feelings of identity? In Identity, Interests and Attitudes to European Integration, Lauren M. McLaren outlines explanations of varying feelings towards the European Union and the integration project, focusing on egoistic self-interest and the perceived threat to one's group. The book introduces new evidence that questions the degree to which Europeans think about the EU in utilitarian terms and contemplates the other lenses through which ordinary citizens might view the EU, particularly those that identify and reject it. Ultimately, the book contends that feelings about the EU may be related more to general xenophobia and out-group rejection than to cost/benefit calculations about whether the EU satisfies one's self-interest.

• Item Type: Books
• Status: Published
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Mclaren, Professor Lauren
• Authors: Mclaren, L.M.
• College/School: College of Social Sciences > School of Social and Political Sciences > Politics
• Publisher: Palgrave Macmillan
• ISBN: 9781403992819