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Denouncing European integration: Euroscepticism as polity contestation

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  • de Wilde, Pieter
  • Trenz, Hans-Jörg

Abstract

The spreading phenomenon of Euroscepticism is manifested in critical practices in discourse that oppose European integration. This paper explores Euroscepticism as an element of discourse, which cannot only be measured as party positions or individual attitudes. Based on this understanding, our argument is twofold. Firstly, Euroscepticism relates to the unsettled and principally contested character of the European Union (EU) as a political entity: its basic purpose and rationale, its institutional design and its future trajectory. It correlates with pro-European discourse and the attempts to promote the (democratic) legitimacy of the EU. Secondly, we argue that Euroscepticism unfolds primarily through mass media. As such, it is given public expression through general news values, drama and narratives that are targeted to draw the attention of the wider audience. Understanding this responsive and public nature of Euroscepticism leads us, in the end, to a comprehensive typology of six forms of polity evaluation of the EU.

Suggested Citation

  • de Wilde, Pieter & Trenz, Hans-Jörg, 2012. "Denouncing European integration: Euroscepticism as polity contestation," EconStor Open Access Articles and Book Chapters, ZBW - Leibniz Information Centre for Economics, vol. 15(4), pages 537-554.
    • Handle: RePEc:zbw:espost:343016
    DOI: 10.1177/1368431011432968
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    3. Eichenberg, Richard C. & Dalton, Russell J., 1993. "Europeans and the European Community: the dynamics of public support for European integration," International Organization, Cambridge University Press, vol. 47(4), pages 507-534, October.
    4. Marks, Gary & Wilson, Carole J., 2000. "The Past in the Present: A Cleavage Theory of Party Response to European Integration," British Journal of Political Science, Cambridge University Press, vol. 30(3), pages 433-459, July.
    5. Chris Flood, 2009. "Dimensions of Euroscepticism," Journal of Common Market Studies, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 47(4), pages 911-917, September.
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