Federalism Versus Neo-Functionalism

Paper Summary:

This paper gives a comprehensive understanding of the application and theory-building nature of federalism versus neo-functionalism. The two theories are compared and contrasted for their similarities and differences, along with arguments about which theory is more influential to international organizations, as they have developed over the years. The U.N., E.U., NAFTA and CARICOM among others are mentioned as the analysis in the paper spans the developed and developing world.

From the Paper:

"Both neo-functionalism and federalism are integration theories, which developed in the light of the European experience particularly after World War II, with federalism emerging first and neo-functionalism shortly after. With respect to neo-functionalism, an operational definition was given by M. Robert Shuman, embodied within a quotation in an outlined plan for the European Union. It was formerly called the Coal and Steel Union. He stated that: "Europe will not be made all at once, or according to a single general plan. It will be built through concrete achievements which first create a de facto solidarity...the pooling of coal and steel production will immediately provide for the setting up of common bases for economic development as a first step in the federation of Europe". Carl Friedrich, on the other hand, described federalism as: "A kind of constitutional order. The function it serves is to restrain the power wielded by the inclusive community and those in it..."."

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