European Cultural Integration: Theories and Practices

Abstract

In the history of the European integration, there are many theories which have tried to explain the integration process. Each of them can focus on one or two important aspects of the integration. As usually known, the European Union is an organization which is based on an economic integration. Thus, most of the theories are related to this topic. Although some other theories are interested in political aspects of the integration, cultural integration is the least mentioned part of the process. Within the context of globalization, cultural aspects have become more important. European Union countries are much more interested in Europeanization theories and also the characteristics of national societies. The purpose of this study is to discuss the integration theories which are related to cultural perspectives. After a literature review, the integration theories and the rhetoric that are used for explaining the cultural perspectives will be analyzed.