Europe Beyond the Nation State
As the international system changes after the Cold War, the reference of nation states is increasingly called into question. The concepts of union or of empire are often invoked as alternatives. Analogies are drawn between historical experiences and contemporary developments. These are either realistic or idealistic. The U.S. are frequently described as a modern Rome, while the EU more often is put into a utopian perspective. Combining approaches of political theory, of the history of international relations and of modern comparative political science, this course will try to look into and discuss these and related questions.
Topics include:
I. Introduction
II. Empires in History
- The Logic of Empires
- Ancient Empires
- Modern Empires
III. Union Experiences
- Comparing Unions
- US and EU
- Fog of War
IV. European Visions
- The Future of the EU
- Lessons from History
V. Conclusion
Requirements: Regular attendance and active participation in class discussion (30%) and a final written exam (70%).
