European political cultures: Conflict or convergence?

European Political Cultures looks at a neglected area of European Studies - the political cultures of the various countries which make up Europe, both East and West. It is written by an international team of writers who address a variety of crucial questions, including: * what factors help make nations and states? * what are the main characteristics of national cultures and sub-cultures? * how do various groups view each other and Europe? We live in a world of increasing inter-dependence and uniformity, both political and cultural. In Czechoslovakia, for example, democratic values undoubtedly helped bring about the downfall of communism. Advertising campaigns are increasingly designed to cross national boundaries; products are even named for the multi-lingual appeal. However, it is imporatant not to exaggerate the process of homogenisation. Europe is the cradle of modern nationalism: Czechoslovakia no longer exists, Yugoslavia has collapsed; even in Western Europe ethnic tensions are increasing. European Political Culture explores these issues, illustrating the dangers of a movement towards ever-growing union which does not take note of the growing populist resitance to Europe. Hans-Georg Betz, Johns Hopkins University Herman van der Wusten, University of Amsterdam Bogdan Szajkowski, Exeter University Stephen White, University of Glasgow James