The Idea of a European Superstate: Public Justification and European Integration

Is there a justification for European integration? The Idea of a European Superstate examines this--the most basic--question raised by the European Union. In doing so, Glyn Morgan assesses the arguments put forward by eurosceptics and their critics. In a challenge to both sides of the debate, Morgan argues in support of a European superstate. Unless Europe forms a unitary sovereign state, Europe will remain, so he maintains, weak and dependent for its security on the United States.


This book represents a unique effort by a political philosopher to examine the justification of European integration. This issue is now a central focus of the debate provoked by Europe's Constitutional Treaty and European Enlargement. "In contrast to most supporters of the European project, Morgan shares the eurosceptics' belief in the importance of sovereignty. In contrast to the eurosceptics, however, Morgan believes that Europeans would have to abandon national "sovereignty in favor of European sovereignty.


The Idea of a European Superstate reshapes the debate on European political integration. It throws down a gauntlet to eurosceptics and euro-enthusiasts alike. While employing the arguments of contemporary political philosophy and international relations, this book is written in an accessible fashion that anyone interested in European integration can understand.