Between Europe and America. The future of British politics

Abstract:

Politicians of all shades have from time to time stated that 'Britain must be at the heart of Europe', and undoubtedly we see a growing involvement and influence in European affairs, but historically Britain has been and may well remain somewhere in the mid-Atlantic. This book explores the dilemmas arising from that position.

The book is organised over ten chapters, the first one providing the background and considering English politics removed from Empire and in the changed arena of devolved assemblies in Wales and Scotland. Chapter two examines the process by which England came to imagine itself as a world island, through the Union to Empire and the global influence which accompanied that. The following four chapters explore the four circles which have played a vital role in shaping British politics and its political economy - the British Union, the British Empire, Anglo-America, and Europe. The models of liberal capitalism, self-government and democratic socialism comprise 'the English model' which is discussed in chapter seven. The rival traditions of left and right in British politics, and their response to decline, the loss of Empire and the demise of socialism are covered in chapters eight and nine. The way forward, be it American or European, is explored in chapter ten.

The book will interest scholars and students of British politics.