Super-state. The new Europe and its challenge to America

Abstract:

The EU, with a population of over 450 million and the world's largest economy, is already a superpower. The advent of monetary union and the creation of the world's largest trading bloc, together with increasing legal harmonisation and the potential constitution, bring it to the verge of being a super-state. It presents a competitive power to the current single super-state - the United States. This work looks at Europe's new strength in the context of the American relationship and the Atlantic Alliance.

The author uses his particular insights into American politics to illustrate how America's political elites have reacted to the rise of 'United Europe' and describes how many see Europe in a new light - no longer dependent upon American might and therefore a potential adversary. He suggests that future United States foreign policy will seek to inhibit Europe's increasing influence by a divide and rule philosophy, as already witnessed in the Iraq disagreements. The rising tide in Europe for a common foreign and defence policy also begins to threaten the NATO alliance, which the author suggests will lead to the ultimate demise of NATO. European assertiveness will bring its relationship with the USA to one of partnership rather than one of a faithful 'follow-your-leader' role.

The work will interest scholars, students and political scientists engaged in European Studies, International Relations and the Atlantic Alliance.

Stephen Haseler is Professor of Government at London Metropolitan University.