The Constitution of Europe: "Do the New Clothes Have An Emperor? " And Other Essays on European Integration - Softcover

Weiler, J. H. H.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0521585678 ISBN 13: 9780521585675

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 1999

Synopsis

Joseph Weiler presents essays written during the 1990s on issues related to European constitutional law. In a series of highly accessible discussions concerning the legal framework of the European Communities and the European Union, Professor Weiler describes the gradual strengthening of transnational European institutions at the expense of national legislators. Although individuals as legal consumers have been empowered by Community law, he writes, this has been at the expense of their rights as citizens. The Constitution of Europe thus provides from a legal perspective a balanced and authoritative critique of the attractions and demerits of the goal of European integration.

About this title

Review:

'The Constitution of Europe is an important book about a mighty issue written by someone who is non-partisan. J. H. H. Weiler is an academic before he is a protagonist. He is well versed in the judgements of the European Court, and sensitive to the nuances and changes of European law and politics. He prides himself on being neither Eurosceptic nor Eurofederalist, in an age where Europeans are being forced to join one or other of the warring camps.' John Redwood, The Times Literary Supplement

'This book certainly should be read not only by those with an interest in European law and European political integration, but it should be read as well by anyone with an interest in how legal and political actors and institutions shape and constrain each other. Weiler writes with a clear, engaging, and entertaining prose. ... It is a book that would make sense in any number of graduate seminars, and a number of chapters would work rather well for advanced undergraduates as well. Above all this is an outstanding example of the intellectual stimulation and exciting practical prescriptions that can be generated when scholars are willing to open their minds to the insights of disciplines other than their own. If nothing else, Weiler's book is concrete proof that an understanding of the role of law in Europe is impossible without a clear consideration of politics - political theory, political institutions and political behavior - as well as economics, sociology, international relations, history and even a good dose of religion.' Gordon Silverstein, Law and Politics Book Review

'This book brings together some of Weiler's best known published essays and articles, most of which have been revised. Like most collections it is a book to be visited on different occasions rather than read at one sitting ... The thoughtful arguments and insights provided by Weiler merit the attention they have long received.' Political Studies

Book Description:

Joseph Weiler describes the gradual strengthening of transnational European institutions at the expense of national legislators, and provides, from a legal perspective, a balanced and authoritative critique of the attractions and demerits of the goal of European integration.

About this edition

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 1999
• ISBN 10: 0521585678
• ISBN 13: 9780521585675
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 384