Paper Summary:

This paper argues that European integration theory is a product of its time rather than its key thinkers. It is shown that various theories of European integration have often arisen as a direct consequence of practical developments with the aim of explaining such phenomena. The paper also contends that various integration theories can be attributed to physical and practical developments in a given time and space, effectively arguing that European integration theory is a product of its key thinkers. Nonetheless, the paper does ensure that the key assumptions of prominent integration theorists are given full expression; along with the important role such thinkers have played in the development of European integration as a whole.

From the Paper:

"The pertinent place to begin this investigation is with the theoretical arguments which persist between the competing integration theories of federalism and functionalism. The former assumes an eminent history in terms of international relations and nation state formation (Burgess 2007). The essential feature of federalism suggests that the integration of previously autominous political actors takes place on the basis of clearly defined political will. Such political will usually occurs has a result of common political and socio-economic interests between autominous actors being viewed as the vital prerequisite to federally based integration (Burgess 2007). Alternately, functionalism suggests that integration between nation states largely occurs beyond the auspices of the national political realm. The development of industrial societies, personified by complex modes of productive relations results in hugely complicated socio-economic problems at the international level. Therefore, international organisations can essentially be characterised as administrative conglomerates which operate at a technical level beyond the traditional political realm (Hass 1964). Given that mechanical problems occur at the international level, then it is argued that there is a natural functional requirement for international organisations to assume some of the powers and responsibilities of the nation state (Hass 1964). "

Sample of Sources Used:

• Burgess, M (2007) 'Federalism and Federation' in Cini, M (ed) European Union Politics. Oxford: Oxford University Press, pp. 69-84.
• Caporaso, J (1998) 'Regional Integration Theory: understanding our past and anticipating out future'. Journal of European Public Policy, 5 (1), pp. 1-16.
• Cini, M (2007) 'Intergovernmentalism' in Cini M (ed) European Union Politics. Oxford: Oxford University Press, pp. 99-116.
• Cram, L (1997) Policy-Making in the European Union: conceptual lenses and the integration process. London: Routledge.
• Diez, T & Wiener, A (2009) European Integration Theory. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

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