European Union

Paper Summary:

The paper discusses how the European Union is one of the most dominant actors on the contemporary global stage whose role is only expected to grow. The paper explains how the European Union is not like a traditional power; it lacks its own armies, does not pursue a coordinated foreign policy and acts primarily in terms of its economic influence. The paper then shows how it uses this economic influence in a variety of ways that contribute strongly to a very real and powerful role in global affairs. The paper points out, however, that the overarching economic emphasis of the European project can have its negative side in terms of too much control, and a bland homogenization that threatens Europe's diverse cultures and those of other nations as well.

From the Paper:

"The European Union is one of the most dominant actors on the contemporary global stage, and its role is only expected to grow. Yet, the European Union is often seen in terms different from that of the traditional superpower. Few foresee the emergence of the European Union as a military rival to the United States, Russia, China, or other powers. Instead, its increasing power is seen to be economic, cultural, and diplomatic. A united Europe will see its economic cloud spread across the planet. Its values will shape human and civil rights in both the developing and the developed worlds. Europe will be a leader in the "greening" of the world economy, a primary exponent of policy calculated to combat global warming and other pressing environmental issues."

Sample of Sources Used:

• http://currychutney.blogspot.com/2007/11/global-economic-power-shift.html.
• http://www.itwales.com/998951.htm.
• Kimball, R. (2003, Winter). Political Correctness or, the Perils of Benevolence. The National Interest 158+.
• Pierce, R. J. (2007). Energy Independence and Global Warming. Environmental Law, 37(3), 595+.
• Sarkozy, N. (2007, July/August). Liberte, Fraternite . Modernite?. The National Interest 14+.

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• Research Paper # 84230 : "Multilevel Governance in the European Union"
• Essay # 85817 : "European Union"
• Essay # 71054 : " Turkey and the European Union"
• Essay # 69414 : "Turkey and the European Union"

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