An ever closer fusion? A dynamic macropolitical view on integration processes

被引:105
作者
Wessels, W
机构
[1] Forsch. Inst. Politische Wiss. E., Universität Zu Köln, 50931 Köln
来源
JOURNAL OF COMMON MARKET STUDIES | 1997年 / 35卷 / 02期
关键词
D O I
10.1111/1468-5965.00060
中图分类号
F [经济];
学科分类号
02 ;
摘要
To explain the evolution of the EU, a macropolitical approach using overall aggregate data is taken. Four dynamic views are tested: the neofunctional/neofederal assumption of linear growth; the realist view of decline; the governance/pendulum view of cyclical up and down; and the fusion thesis view of structural growth and differentiation. The article uses five indicators: binding outputs; scope enlargement of public policies; transfer of competencies; institutional growth and procedural differentiation; and involvement of intermediary groups in channels of influence. The data point to trends of merging public resources at several state levels, leading to increasing complexities, a lack of transparency and difficulties in reversing the development. This ever closer fusion is explained as a dynamic product of rational strategies of European welfare states faced with growing interdependencies and spillovers, furthered by the institutional logics of EU bodies. Criticized for the lack of legitimacy and the entailing of national democratic constitutions, this new polity may be perceived as a new stage in the evolution of European states and - more open to critical debate - a novel form of representative government.
引用
收藏
页码:267 / 299
页数:33
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