| ID | 091024 |
| Title Proper | Social identity theory and EU expansion |
| Language | ENG |
| Author | Curley, Tyler M |
| Publication | 2009. |
| Summary / Abstract (Note) | In this article, I build a theory of European Union (EU) expansion using Social Identity Theory. The theory proposes that the development of a national identity in relation to Europe is the most significant contributing factor to a policy to support/oppose expanding the EU to include applicant countries. According to the theory, strength of identity-whether more national or European-is the key variable in explaining the policy toward applicant countries. As a preliminary exploration of the theory, I look at why some decision-makers within EU countries support Turkey's accession while others do not. The identities among top decision-makers within Britain, Germany, and France are used to examine the policy preferences regarding Turkey's bid for membership into the EU during these three recent progressions: the recognition of Turkey as a candidate country in 1999, the development of a timeline for full membership in 2002, and the beginning of accession negotiations in 2005. |
| `In' analytical Note | International Studies Quarterly Vol. 53, No. 3; Sep 2009: p649-668 |
| Journal Source | International Studies Quarterly Vol. 53, No. 3; Sep 2009: p649-668 |
| Key Words | Social Identity Theory ; E U Expansion ; Social Psychology |