The Idea of a European Superstate: Public Justification and European Integration - New Edition - Paperback

by Glyn Morgan (Author)

Is there a justification for European integration? The Idea of a European Superstate examines this--the most basic--question raised by the European Union. In doing so, Glyn Morgan assesses the arguments put forward by eurosceptics and their critics. In a challenge to both sides of the debate, Morgan argues in support of a European superstate. Unless Europe forms a unitary sovereign state, Europe will remain, so he maintains, weak and dependent for its security on the United States.

The Idea of a European Superstate reshapes the debate on European political integration. It throws down a gauntlet to eurosceptics and euro-enthusiasts alike. While employing the arguments of contemporary political philosophy and international relations, this book is written in an accessible fashion that anyone interested in European integration can understand.

Front Jacket

Much of the literature on Europe is low-powered, boring Eurospeak. The Idea of a European Superstate is utterly different. For one thing, it is beautifully written: elegant, incisive, witty, engaged, and on top of many literatures. For another, it really does have a new approach--that of providing normative arguments to argue openly, against the grain of most intellectual and public opinion, for something like a United States of Europe. This is a strikingly original contribution. At the same time this book is a true exercise in political theory. Morgan draws distinctions of real and lasting interest. This is an incisive book that makes you think--indeed one that makes you re-examine those of your beliefs you thought were secure.--John Hall, McGill University, author of "International Orders" and coauthor of "Is America Breaking Apart?"

"This is a lucid and much-needed book in the genre of what might be called 'applied political theory.' It asks a number of fundamental normative questions in a clear and concise manner, and clarifies the stakes of what the author himself rightly describes as an ongoing fundamental political transformation. Morgan very effectively takes apart the often unquestioned assumptions of both euro-sceptics and euro-enthusiasts."--Jan-Werner Mueller, Princeton University, author of "Another Country: German Intellectuals, Unification, and National Identity"

Author Biography

Glyn Morgan is associate professor of government and of social studies at Harvard University.