BRINGING THEDEMOSBACK IN

Abstract

Abstract:The creation of a EUropean demos is often debated by referring to forms of ethnic or civic identities. The present article aims to expose the theoretical shortcomings of this dichotomous approach, which confines the complexity of EUrope within a simplifying methodological nationalism. By relying on empirical data collected in four different EUropean regions, the article points to the relevance of a functional or utilitarian rationale which EUropean interviewees use to justify the existence of EUrope. Although this rationale does not obliterate cultural and civic narrations of EUrope, I would argue that it invites to reconsider the traditional role played by identities in the construction of political institutions. Accordingly, I believe that scholars should take more seriously the metaphor 'EUrope as a laboratory' -a convenient, but often empty metaphor.

Zagadnienie tożsamości w perspektywie geopolitycznej strategii Chin

“…Consequently, the interpretation of identity on national grounds is unjustified reductionism. Marco Antonsich (2012) substantiates the shortcomings of the theoretical and methodological research of European identity as a projection of nationalism (Antonsich M., 2012). Referring to empirical data collected in four European regions, the author strengthens the position of a functional and utilitarian approach to substantiating European identity (Antonsich M., 2012, p. 485).…”

Switzerland as a model for the EU

“…Identity is also important to promote solidarity among the different peoples and, consequently, ensure at least minimally redistributive institutions (Johnston et al, 2010). Although there is much discussion today on which type of identity is needed at the European level (Kantner, 2006;Antonsich, 2012;Nicolaïdis, 2012), the recent crises bring into the cold light of day the fact that the EU project depends on identity feelings under any reasonable guise.…”