This course considers the ideas and political practices that underlie the
"European Union."  This is an exciting topic to explore because we are
dealing not only with the potential of an emerging political entity that
would at a minimum be an economic super power.  The associated, basic
debate over what it means to be a "European" also raises important issues
of political culture and national identity.

These broad themes will be pursued through lectures, discussions, and a
number of videos.  They also entail different types of discussions.  We
first will consider the development, institutions and policies of the
European Union.  These matters are tested best by an examination which
will occur in early March.  Discussions of Europe as (possibly) a common
culture, a political project, or a collection of nationalities are best
explored through papers.  There will be two, one due in early and the
other in late April.  There will be no final examination.

I would be pleased to discuss the course and the details of the
assignments with anyone possibly interested in taking it.  My office
hours are Wednesdays 9-11 and Thursdays 2:30-4:30.  My E-mail address is
Furniss, my phone 855-9100.