Cosmopolitan Europe: Views and identity

Abstract: Cosmopolitanism represents a way of dealing with difference and similarity within changing societies in a globalized world. Amongst other things, cosmopolitan theory claims that the cosmopolitan feels part of a community transcending the borders of national societies and actively embraces diversity among people. Yet, we know little about what cosmopolitans are like and what distinguishes them from non-cosmopolitans on empirical grounds. Using data from the Eurobarometer 57.2 (European Commission 2002), I explore the link between cosmopolitanism and a subjective meaning of 'being European', i.e., whether cosmopolitans express different European identities compared to non-cosmopolitans. Results of statistical analysis show that many people feel close to fellow Europeans and thereby express one kind of cosmopolitanism; however, it remains difficult to say who these people are as socio-demographic variables play a negligible role. With respect to the meaning of 'being European' it is striking that cosmopolitans have not only developed a stronger but also a more open European identity. This confirms central normative claims of cosmopolitan theory and demonstrates further possibilities to strengthen cosmopolitanization across Europe.