This essay assess the most important five integration theories with regard to the premise of policy preference convergence. While some describe the initial process as a convergence of of them, which culminates in an agreement of centralization, a parity of the theories in this area of social science doesn’t see a convergence as a necessary, nor as a satisfactory condition, inter alia the predominant theory of neofunctionalism. However, all theories agree upon the fact that an interest complementarity is conducive towards integration.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Introduction
- Assessment of theories of integration whether policy preference-convergence is a necessary condition for the process
- Policy-preference-convergence theories
- Non-Policy-preference-convergence theories
- Conclusion
- References
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This essay examines the role of policy preference convergence in theories of European integration. It explores whether converging policy preferences are a necessary condition for the process of integration, or if other factors are more important.
- Theories of European Integration
- Policy Preference Convergence
- Intergovernmentalism
- Functionalism
- Neofunctionalism
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
- Introduction: This section introduces the concept of European integration and its theoretical frameworks, highlighting the ongoing process of integration within the European Union.
- Assessment of theories of integration whether policy preference-convergence is a necessary condition for the process: This chapter delves into different theories of integration, exploring whether converging policy preferences are a prerequisite for the process. It analyzes the perspectives of both policy-preference-convergence theories (e.g., Intergovernmentalism, Functionalism) and non-policy-preference-convergence theories (e.g., Transactionalism, Neofunctionalism).
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
The key concepts explored in this essay include: European integration, policy preference convergence, intergovernmentalism, functionalism, neofunctionalism, transactionalism, supranational institutions, and the role of national interests in the integration process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the premise of policy preference convergence in European integration?
It is the idea that member states' national interests and policy goals must align or become similar to trigger or sustain the process of centralization and integration within the EU.
Which theories view policy convergence as a necessary condition?
Theories such as Intergovernmentalism and Functionalism generally consider the convergence of national preferences as a prerequisite for integration steps.
Does Neofunctionalism require policy preference convergence?
No, Neofunctionalism, a predominant theory in social science, does not see convergence as a necessary or satisfactory condition for integration to occur.
What do all integration theories agree upon regarding interests?
All major theories agree that interest complementarity—where different interests can be satisfied by the same policy—is conducive towards the integration process.
What are non-policy-preference-convergence theories?
These are theoretical frameworks like Transactionalism and Neofunctionalism that explain integration through other mechanisms, such as institutional dynamics or social transactions, rather than just aligned national preferences.
- Quote paper
- Dominik Hueller (Author), 2015, Theories of European Integration and the Premise of Policy Preference Convergence, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/309187
