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The European Union: A Very Short Introduction

by John Pinder

A concise guide to the European Union’s institutions, history, and uncertainties

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AlbakiReads Editorial

A concise guide to the European Union’s institutions, history, and uncertainties

John Pinder traces the EU’s development from 1950 through the period covered by this fourth edition, linking its institutional structure to the political debates around European integration. The book addresses the tension between federalist and eurosceptic positions, the Union’s role in international affairs and peacekeeping, and its expanding involvement in public policy. It also places the migrant crisis and the UK’s decision to leave within the broader question of the EU’s viability and future. The scope makes this an overview of both how the Union took shape and the choices and challenges facing it at the time of publication.

Good fit for readers who enjoy

  • Readers seeking a compact introduction to the EU’s history and institutions.
  • Students or general readers interested in European politics and integration.
  • Readers exploring debates about the EU’s international role and future.

Themes

European integration and political cooperationEU institutions and public policyFederalism and euroscepticismThe EU’s international roleThe Union’s future

Based on publisher information and book metadata.

Book overview

The European Union (EU) stands out as a fascinatingly unique political organization. On the one hand, it has shown the potential for developing deep and wide-ranging cooperation between member states, going far beyond that found anywhere else in the world. On the other, it is currently in the throes of a phase of profound uncertainty about its viability and future.

Showing how and why the EU has developed from 1950 to the present day, this Very Short Introduction covers a range of topics, including the Union's early history, the workings of its institutions and what they do, the interplay between "eurosceptics" and federalists, and the role of the Union beyond Europe in international affairs and as a peace-keeper.

In this fully updated fourth edition, Pinder and Usherwood cover the migrant crisis and the UK's decision to leave the Union, set in the context of a body that is now involved in most areas of public policy. Discussing how the EU continues to draw in new members, they conclude by considering the future of the Union and the choices and challenges that may lie ahead.

ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.
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