Why Europe Matters

1. Introduction.- 2. What is Europe?.- 3. Europe as a Peacemaker.- 4. Europe as a Marketplace.- 5. Europe as a Democracy.- 6. Europe as a Community.- 7. Europe as a Model.- 8. Europe as a Global Player.- 9. Where To From Here?.- 10. Twenty Reasons Why Europe Matters.

John McCormick is Professor of Political Science, Indiana University, Indianapolis, USA, and is author of a number of Red Globe Press's bestselling books in politics, including Comparative Government and Politics (with Rod Hague and Martin Harrop), Understanding the European Union and European Union Politics.

'Sceptical voices have been a constant accompaniment to the construction of a Europe 'united in diversity' and, as John McCormick reminds us, there have been many memorable predictions over the years of its impending crisis or death. With his wide knowledge of history and expertise as a seasoned political analyst, he is well aware of both the strengths and weaknesses of this process and of the inevitability of periods of stagnation and crisis as well as periods of dynamism. But in a stark challenge to sceptics and critics he shows that the story of European Union has been, above all, one of progress in mutual understanding between peoples, of the benefits of cooperation and of the pooling of sovereignty between nations, and of a growing solidarity and cohesion in practice that could provide a model too for those looking for a more peaceful and cooperative form of organization on a global scale.' - Jacques Delors, Former President of the European Commission'McCormick's clear, concrete exposition of the unique importance of the EU to all its member states and citizens will inform and enlighten Euro enthusiasts and sceptics alike - and could not have been more timely for the new debate about Britain's role in a changing Union.' - John Palmer, formerly European editor of the Guardian and founder political director of the European Policy Centre. 'A must read for citizens, professionals, students and policy-makers alike by one of the most respected authorities on European Affairs.' - Alexander Stubb, Minister for European Affairs and Foreign Trade, Finland